The last week of February several professionals from Wayne County being trained in the international recognized Strengthening Families (SF) Program for 10-14 yr old youth and their parents/ caregivers. This program has made a difference in thousands of families in all 50 states and in over 25 countries.
Parents want to protect their children, but it’s challenging. Youth
need skills to help them resist the peer pressure that leads to risky
behaviors. Research
shows that protective parenting improves family relationships and
decreases the level of family conflict, contributing to lower levels of
substance use.
A research study conducted by the Partnerships in Prevention Science Institute found a return of $9.60 for every dollar spent implementing the Strengthening Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10-14.
Schools are better places to learn, employers have less distracted employees, substance abuse treatment needs are reduced, and people have less involvement with law enforcement.
The Strengthening Families Program 10-14 is a scientifically tested curriculum that:
- helps parents/caregivers learn nurturing skills that support their children,
- teaches parents/caregivers how to effectively discipline and guide their youth,
- gives youth a healthy future orientation and an increased appreciation of their parents/caregivers, and
- teaches youth skills for dealing with stress and peer pressure.
Vanessa Davis, Nancy Fry, Donna Thompson and Julie Tritz were trained in this program last week, as part of a state-wide training held at Stonewall Jackson Resort in Roanoke, WV. Opportunities will be available for families in Wayne County to avail of this program. More details will be forthcoming later this year. To learn more, please contact the Extension Office at 304-272-6839.