Parents As Teachers

The Tiverton School Department is very proud to offer of a Parents As Teachers program within our community.  This program began in 2008 and is funded through state and federal grants.  The program provides free support and resources to families of children ages birth to five.

Parents as Teachers is a research-based program that has a positive impact on families.  Studies show that:

  PAT children have significantly increased language, problem solving and social development at age three;

 · School readiness and success in  school is greatly enhanced for PAT children;

 · Children’s gains carry over to the early elementary grades, as seen by higher scores on standardized tests in reading and math;

 · Parents are more confident in their parenting skills and knowledge;

· Parents read more to their children and are more involved in their children’s education, leading to higher achievement;

What Families Receive:

1.  Personal Visits– a parent educator visits with you and your child usually once a month.  They address parenting concerns and share child development information,  They…

 · Listen to your concerns

· Answer questions that you may have about your child.

· Show you how to use everyday items that you have in your home to help your child develop.

· Offer ideas for age-appropriate fun activities.

· Give information on the latest research related to early    learning and child development.

2.  Developmental Screenings-your parent educator will help you recognize red flags for health, hearing and vision so that potential problems can be detected early.

3.  Group Meetings-meet with other parents in an informal setting to discover that you are not alone with your questions and concerns. There are also opportunities to listen to expert speakers and learn new family activities.

 4.  A Resource Network-your parent educator can link your family to other community services such as...

· New parent support groups

· Accredited childcare programs

· Food, heating, and housing assistance

· Early learning programs, local libraries, children’s museums, etc

· Recreational offerings

· Family health and wellness programs

 What do parents say about Parents as Teachers?

 "Having someone take the time to talk with me, one-on-one, about parenting makes me feel useful, needed and very necessary!

 “I have learned so much about the way my child’s brain works and body functions...I look forward to the years ahead because I know  our son will continue to learn and excel.”

 “I found the program to be a unique and helpful place where I can come with questions about children’s development.  It has also made me more aware of what’s out there in the community.”

Being a parent is hard work.

In the first few years, children learn more and at a faster pace than at any other time in life.  You can help shape your child’s future by the kinds of experiences you provide.  Your baby was born to learn, and as a parent, you are your child’s first and most important teacher.

Parents as Teachers is based on the beliefs that no one knows your child better than you, and that all families have strengths to be recognized