Strengthening Families Program
STRENGTHENING FAMILIES PROGRAM
What happens in the sessions? Each session begins with families enjoying a light dinner together. Parents and children then break into separate groups with the children divided according to age. Families then come back together and have the opportunity to practice what they have learned in their groups. Families are given the opportunity to earn incentives. Child care is available for children ages birth to 12 years.
Who is the program for? The program targets parents/caregivers and their children, ages birth to 16. Children are grouped by age: birth-3, 4-5 years, 6-11 years, 12-16 years. Families sign up for classes that focus on specific age groups.
When and where are sessions held? Sessions are offered in both a 9-week and a 14week format. Families meet one evening each week at schools, Children & Families First offices, and other community settings statewide. Classes are also available in Spanish.
A family skills traning program for parents and their children. The program is based on studies that show children grow up best when parents/caregivers communicate emotional support and practice consistent discipline. Participants learn to make these two concepts the foundation of their family life.
What happens in the parent groups? Parent sessions include discussions and lessons that focus on: • • • • • • •
Children’s developmental stages Importance of family meetings Giving clear directions Rewards for positive behavior Reduction of at-risk behaviors Problem solving Discipline and limit-setting techniques
What happens in the youth groups? Youth sessions focus on building skills such as: • • • • •
Listening Communicating Problem solving Managing anger Dealing with peer pressure
What is the cost? There is no cost for families to participate. This program is sponsored in part by a grant from the Office of Prevention and Early Intervention, Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families through the State of Delaware General Funds and Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant Funds.
Who facilitates the classes? Classes for children and adults are taught by professional group facilitators who are Certified Family Trainers.
OURMISSION Children & Families First helps children facing adversity on their journey to adulthood. We use proven methods to help families raise their children so they can flourish.
OURVISION Communities where children are nurtured and safe; individuals are valued; and families are strong and self-sufficient.
For more information or to register, call: (800) 734-2388 Referrals can be faxed to: (855) 835-5208 For class schedules, visit: www.cffde.org
Children & Families First WWW.CFFDE.ORG Children & Families First strengthens Delaware families by delivering an innovative and effective continuum of community-based social services. In existence for more than 130 years, CFF builds the foundation for strong communities with child-centered and familyfocused programs.
Children & Families First Office Locations New Castle County: 809 Washington Street Wilmington, DE 19801
Kent County:
Sussex County:
91 Wolf Creek Blvd. 410 S. Bedford Street Dover, DE 19901 Georgetown, DE 19947
Children & Families First provides culturally competent services to persons who are deaf/hard of hearing and/or non-English speaking free of charge. Interpretation and other aids are available upon request.
It’s not just our name,
IT’S OUR PROMISE
Licensed by the Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families ; Accredited by the Council on Accreditation Member of the United Way of Delaware; Partner Agency of the United Way of Delaware; Member of the Alliance for Children and Families; Member of the Children’s Home Society of America