Resource Support for Families

Leslie Abell
Doctor Christine Schull
CHD 216
November 9, 2010

I work in a half day preschool program with three and four year olds.  The majority of my families are middle to upper class stay at home moms.  I do have a few families in crisis, which is why I added this topic.

The parent resource file is broken down into four categories; Child Development, Health and Safety, Parenting Resources, and Community Resources for Families.  Under each topic there are a variety of sub-topics which are geared primarily for three to four year old children.  However, there are some topics that can be used for children birth to five years.

Child Development is a hot button for many families and there are many elements to understanding how children learn and develop.  To help parents, I chose topics I felt would help families understand preschool development and developmentally appropriate practices.  For example, the literacy section helps parents understand that children need to learn the foundations of reading before they can learn to read. There is wonderful information on how parents can help foster literacy development in their children.  Play is also a very important element in understanding whole child development.  Through play children develop physical skills, cognitive concepts, problem solving skills, language skills, and social skills.  I have developed a list of great websites that will assist parents in promoting play at home.

Keeping children healthy and safe are major concerns for parents.  Children need to be aware of strangers without being afraid of them because not all strangers are bad.  The Health and Safety section has great tips for parents in teaching their children about strangers in terms they understand.  Another topic that has drawn a lot of attention in recent years is childhood obesity.  It is important for us to teach our children how to be healthy.  In doing this, adults need to remember actions speak louder than words.  We all know that children mimic what they see and hear, so it's up to us adults to role model a healthy lifestyle.  For example, cooking and exercising together has many benefits; they encourage healthy living, offer opportunities for spending quality time together and they can motivate us to stick with a healthy program!

No one ever said parenting would be easy or there would be no bumps along the way.  In the Parenting Resource section, I have provided articles that address some of the issues that can cause stress for families.  Stress not only affects parental health but also children’s health.  The articles will give parents ideas on how to cope with these issues.  There is also information in this section that will help parents find inexpensive family events around town, so they can take time to smell the roses and enjoy quality family fun.

The tough economic times have taken its toll on the American family.  Many families are stressed due to war, financial pressures and job instability.  These pressures put an enormous strain on marital relationships and unfortunately can lead to separation and divorce.  The Community Services for Families section provides a list of resources to help families work through these emotional times.  Also included in this section are resources for families of the military.  Several of these sites offer great books to assist parents in talking with their children about the changes going on in their lives. 





 
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