All About the East Haven Family Resource Center

The Family Resource Center

In 1998, the East Haven Public Schools established the Family Resource Center at D.C. Moore School to support the healthy development of families in the community. The Family Resource Center offers an integrated system of family support services that enhance parenting, promote family involvement with the schools, and help children to succeed academically, socially and emotionally, as well as help all children be school ready.

Family Resource Center programs are based on two important concepts:

• -Parents are their child’s first and most important teachers.
• Stimulating experiences in the first three years of a child’s life are key to future success in school and in family life.

Philosophy

We believe in children and families and that parenting is the most difficult and important job you will ever have, and potentially, the most rewarding. The Family Resource Center believes that healthy development and good education begin with access to quality support services from birth.

The Family Resource Center helps to provide the best possible start for children and families by providing a common ground for all families and services which enhances self-esteem, encourages growth and enables family members to reach their fullest potential.

By motivating and inspiring them in a warm, happy, caring environment we can nurture each family as a unit. Our goal is to help each family become lovers of learning, eager discoverers and leaders in their school and community. Our wish is to offer families the opportunity to experience with their child, the sense of wonder, humor, compassion and a sense of optimism about learning and living.

Programs for Young Children

* Full day preschool: The FRC offers a full-time NAEYC accredited preschool for children ages 3 and 4. This program is located at D.C. Moore and is open from 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Monday – Friday to parents who are employed or in school full-time.

Families in training play groups are held weekly.

* Personal visits using the “Parent As Teachers” curriculum.

Programs for Parents and Caregivers

* Parenting education workshops.

* English (ESL) and high school equivalency (GED) classes in collaboration with East Haven Adult Education.

* Resources and referrals that provide information and training to parents/families needing social, health and mental health service.

* Ongoing parenting support groups.

* Training and support for in-home and center based childcare providers.

* Positive Youth Development: The FRC collaborates with D.C. Moore to provide a range of educational opportunities for school age children with emphasis on developing the attributes of good character.

How the East Haven Family Resource Center Can Assist You:

* Increase your enjoyment of your child and the parenting experience.

* Assist your child with his/her development.

* Increase your ability to detect any developmental delays your child may have.

* Increase your knowledge of resources for parents.

* Seek parental involvement, support and feedback in determining the needs of East Haven’s children.

For further information about programs, service or resources call the FRC office at 468-3898.

Marissa Velazquez, Family Resource Center School Readiness Site Coordinator

Brittany Shelton, Family Resource Parent Educator

Lorena Venegas, Family Resource Bi-lingual Parent Educator

Supported by State of Connecticut Family Resource Center and School Readiness funds.