Established in 1983 and extended to Massachusetts in 1996, the Nurturing Program’s emphasis is on the whole family. By targeting parents with children from birth to six years old, the programs support children and their families in a crucial time of development. It brings together groups of parents with similar needs, provides them with pertinent information, and helps them develop into supportive peer groups.

Critical Program Elements:
• Parents are involved in the planning, implementation, and governance of the program
• Volunteers enhance program with their invaluable participation
• Developmentally appropriate child curriculum aligns with parent curriculum.
• Simultaneous child curriculum developmentally geared
• Families, staff, and volunteers share a meal
• Transportation provided
• Referrals and access to additional services
• 3 ½ hour sessions consists of two group activities, a shared meal, and a family nurturing activity.

Program Benefits:
• As the families become involved in the program, they become involved in a supportive network.
• Parents report a new ability to effectively dealing with their emotions in a variety of
circumstances.
• Participants often move into leadership positions within their community often taking on the role of parent leader/facilitator in the Nurturing Program and other local agencies.

Community Served:
North Quabbin Region: Athol, Orange, Petersham,
Phillipston, Royalston, New Salem, Wendell, Warwick
and Erving

Lead Agency:
Valuing Our Children

Local Program Contact:
Kathleen Hardie

Phone:
978-249-8467

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