Family Service of Chester County is launching a fun, free universal prevention program, Strengthening Steps, specifically designed for children between the ages of 7 and 9 and their caregivers.

This free skills-building program is delivered in seven highly engaging weekly sessions as independent, concurrent learning sessions for caregivers and children, followed by joint family sessions.

The primary goals of the program are to build positive behavior and social skills in children. For caregivers, the program enhances parenting skills and promotes effective parenting styles, ultimately with the goal to strengthen family bonds, increase positive communication, and increase collaborative problem-solving skills within the family unit.

As an extension of the weekly sessions, each family receives a weekly incentive to enhance and encourage more family fun engagement at home.

Strengthening Steps runs for seven weeks, starting in October at East Ward Elementary School. Each session begins with a free family dinner, which invites all participants to engage in community and conversation over a delicious, prepared meal. Siblings of attendees are invited to come and take part in the free onsite childcare.

Dr. Nick Argonish, Principal at East Ward Elementary School in Downingtown, has expressed his support for this new program.

“The Strengthening Steps Program will offer resources that can help improve students’ academic performance, bolster students’ emotional well-being, and foster a sense of unity and support among caregivers for our school,” Dr. Argonish said.

He also expressed that “Strong parent/child communication is essential for creating a supportive, nurturing, and encouraging environment for a student’s success.”

Strengthening Steps is funded through the Chester County Department of Children, Youth & Families.

The program will run two cohorts throughout the current school year, offering a unique opportunity for families to build close, nurturing, responsive relationships while having lots of fun together.

Family Service of Chester County works to empower individuals and strengthen marginalized communities by providing compassionate, high-quality services that address the root causes of social and economic inequality.

Click here to learn more or visit www.familyservice.us.