Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
A variety of family-focused agencies in north central Iowa work with families of young children and do parenting education formally or informally. They expressed a need for an affordable, research-based curriculum with basic, but essential information presented in an engaging way to help new and inexperienced parents of all socio-economic levels. All new parents want to get their family off to a great start and have lots of questions about the best ways to do that. Some of the agencies are serving a number of Spanish-speaking clients and need information in Spanish.

Response:
A six-hour facilitator training session was held for agency staff wishing to implement the Great Beginnings for Families curriculum as part of their work with parents of young children. The twelve participants represented Parents as Teachers, Public Health Nursing staff, Early Head Start, a youth-services organization doing in-home individualized education, and a child care center.

Impact:
Following the training, all participants indicated the training was very helpful and the curriculum and activities were appropriate and useful for the families they were serving. Comments included, "Good presentation, good material & we'll use it!!" "Well-organized, enjoyable, useful information! Great visuals! Thanks."

Additional ISUE Staff:
Janet Brown, Family Life Field Specialist, 641-423-0844, jmbrown@iastate.edu

Contact:
Donna Andrusyk
Bremer County Extension
720 7th Ave SW
Tripoli, IA 50676
319-882-4275
andrusyk@iastate.edu