Strengthening Families

What is Strengthening Families?

¨ Strengthening Families is a program designed for parents/caregivers and their children ages 6-9 or 10-14.  The goal of the program is to learn ways to strengthen family relationships, parenting skills, and youth social and life skills.  The program is appropriate for single-parent, blended, or traditional families.  Trained facilitators lead the program and are present to create a relaxed environment and guide conversations.  Strengthening Families is provided FREE to all families thanks to funding from the Safe Schools Healthy Students Grant and Youth First!

What happens at Strengthening Families?

¨ Each week the program begins with a family meal.  Afterwards there are separate parent and youth sessions.  We end the evening by coming back together for family time.  Parents will discuss topics including  rewarding positive behavior, giving clear directions, setting limits, problem-solving, and parent/child communication.  Children will cover topics including social skills, following directions, communication, dealing with peer pressure, and problem-solving.  During the family sessions we play games and do activities that help reinforce what we discussed earlier.

¨ The program also provides child care and/or homework help for children younger/older than the programs age range.  We provide weekly and program completion incentives.  Assistance is also available for those who need transportation to and from the program. 

Who can benefit from Strengthening Families?

¨ Strengthening Families is a program designed for EVERY family!  Many people assume this is a program for families with “problems” or by coming they will be labeled as a “bad parent.”  Strengthening Families is all about taking good families and making them better.  In today’s society raising children can be difficult and finding quality time to spend as a family is challenging.  Strengthening Families gives you the opportunity to share your parenting successes and struggles with other parents who are experiencing the same thing.  You will also be given new tools and strategies to take home and try.  Parents are encouraged to build on what they are already doing that works well for their family.  By attending you are also guaranteed some quality family time. 

When asked what did you like most about the program participants said:

· Getting to spend time with my parents.

· Getting to know other parents and know they are going through the same things.

· Group discussions and helpful advice.