KEEPING YOUR FAMILY STRONG
By Cindy Wendorff, Early Childhood Family Education Coordinator
Every family has strengths and faces challenges simultaneously. When you are under stress- the car breaks down, you or your partner lose a job, a child’s behavior is difficult; or even a positive change, such as moving or a new job—it takes a little extra help to get through the day. PROTECTIVE FACTORS are the strengths and resources that families draw upon when life gets difficult. Building on these strengths is a proven way to keep the family strong and prevent abuse and neglect. Experts in national organizations that work to prevent child maltreatment and promote well-being report that there are 6 key factors and some simple ways to build these factors into your own family.
#1 Nurturing & Attachment (Our family shows how much we love each other):
- Take a few minutes at the end of each day to connect with your children with a hug, smile, song or just listening & talking.
Find ways to engage your children while completing everyday tasks (eating, shopping, driving); talk about what you are doing, ask questions, let them see how you make decisions and play simple games such as “I Spy”
#2 Knowledge of Parenting & Child Development (I know that parenting is part natural and part learned. I am always learning new things about raising children and what they can do at different ages):
- Ask questions of your family doctor, child’s teacher, family, or friends
Read reliable books, online newsletters, websites about child development
Take a local parenting class
Observe what your child can and cannot do
Share what you know with your child’s caregivers
#3 Parental Resilience (I have courage during stress & the ability to bounce back from challenges):
- Take some quiet time to reenergize – do something that you enjoy
Do some physical exercise – as simple as taking a walk
Share your feelings with someone you trust
Surround yourself with people who support you
#4 Social Connections (I have friends, family, & neighbors who help out & provide emotional support):
- Participate in your neighborhood activities
Join a playgroup or an online support group of parents with children of similar ages
Find a church, temple or mosque that welcomes and supports parents
#5 Concrete Supports for Parents (Our family can meet our day-to-day needs, including housing, food, health care, education and counseling. I know where to find help if I need it):
- Make a list of people to call for support
Ask your child’s school to connect you with resources
#6 Social and Emotional Competence of Children (My children know they are loved, feel they belong, and are able to get along with others):
- Provide regular routines around mealtimes, school and bedtimes for your children and share them with your child’s caregivers
Talk with your children about the importance of their feelings and other’s feelings
Guide your children in learning to regulate their feelings and emotions
Teach and encourage children to solve problems in age appropriate ways
When you take the time to consider these factors, you will build a stronger family. Your children will benefit, you will benefit and your community will benefit. Call 587-8908 (Early Childhood Family Education) if you have any questions about resources for your children in our community.
