A parent is a child’s first teacher. This important role is amplified when children are not in formal early education programs, and in fact, parenting style and the home learning environment are two of the most significant predictors of cognitive performance among young children. Engaging parents in ways that honor their expertise and build on their understanding of their children’s development is critical to school readiness success!
Here at the Partnership, we offer home visiting services, parent education classes, support groups, and many other services through our Smart Start-funded Health & Family Support programs. Last year, 98% of literacy program participants reported reading more to their children, and 85% of parents who received home visits improved or sustained positive parenting practices.
Durham Early Head Start also provides high-quality comprehensive services, including home visiting services, early intervention and mental health screenings, housing assistance, parent education, and much more.
Our Transition to Kindergarten Initiative focuses on preparing both children and their families for the important milestone of entering school. Parent engagement is a key factor in a child’s ability to navigate school with confidence and competence. 100% of families who attended TTK events last year agreed that the activities helped them feel more comfortable about their children starting kindergarten.
These are just a few of the ways that we engage, empower, and support parents and their children in Durham, and your gift to the Partnership allows us to continue this important work with even more families!
