is our program strengthen the families we serve. This is done through classes, family playtime, peer support, and parenting education, in a culturally appropriate manner. It is funded by the Early Childhood Equity Fund, of the Early Learning Division.

Using the Strengthening Families Protective Factors framework, this program supports knowledge of parenting and child-development, as well as the social and emotional competence of children.

We want parents and other parenting adults to have places in which to enjoy positive healthy time with their children. We also want them to have access to education, guidance or tutoring about creating a healthy family environment. And we want to do that from age 0-17. We are building up our capacity to meet this goal, in multiple languages.

Our approach is to make all activities relevant to the participants.

Transition to Kindergarten

is supported at two separate locations in East Salem, with about 20 children aged 3-5 years of age. Children and their families get familiar with skills, routines, and expectations that will help them be ready for kindergarten. Parental involvement is very important. Activities are free and provided in Spanish. We are working to expand this service into English.

Parent-Child Interaction

is built around play time to promote positive parent-child interaction. At its most basic, we intend to help promote bonding and create positive memories. Play time may be unstructured or structured, built around cultural celebrations, games, toys, etc.

This is a parent-child interaction program, so parenting family members are expected to engage in play with their children.