As part of Qatar Family Day celebrations, the Ministry of Social Development and Family (MSDF), in collaboration with Doha International Family Institute (DIFI), a member of Qatar Foundation, hosted a panel discussion at AlHazm’s Galleria titled “Parenting and Contemporary Challenges: From Awareness to Practice.” 

The discussion convened experts, practitioners, and families to examine the most pressing challenges facing parents today and explore how individuals can be better equipped with the practical skills and support systems needed to navigate parenthood in a rapidly changing social and digital environment.

The session focused on the importance of parenting preparedness, positive parenting styles, healthy child development approaches, and helping parents translate knowledge into sustainable everyday practices that strengthen family relationships and support children’s emotional and social development across different life stages.

Dr. Sharifa Noaman Al-Emadi, Executive Director of DIFI, said: “Empowering parents begins with equipping them with practical knowledge and applicable skills that support healthier family relationships and help them respond more effectively to the psychological and social challenges families face today. Parenting is not simply an instinctive role, but a learned and evolving practice that requires continuous support”.

The discussion also explored how specialized programs, schools, and community institutions can help prepare individuals for parenthood and provide families with guidance pathways that strengthen emotional safety, communication, and resilience within the home. The panel also featured Dr. Mariam Al-Malki, Executive Director of the Parenting Center (Kanaf), who spoke about the importance of equipping parents with practical skills and support pathways that help them navigate different stages of parenthood and foster healthier family relationships.

In this context, Dr. Al-Malki outlined the vision, objectives, and programs of Kanaf, which was launched on the 14th of April under the patronage of His Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, which aims to empower parents, enhance their readiness for parenting, and provide them with the practical skills and evidence-based guidance needed to address contemporary family and parental challenges. She added that the Center will play a key role in fostering healthier family relationships and promoting greater family cohesion and stability across Qatar. 

The event reflects the shared commitment of DIFI and MSDF to continue supporting families through public dialogue and practical initiatives that empower parents with the skills and guidance needed to adopt positive parenting styles and build healthier, more supportive home environment for children across Qatar.