The Parenting Journey is geared toward parents who have not had the kind of upbringing of the own that serves as a resource and that provides emotional sustenance. The curriculum has been well received by both parents involved in the child welfare system as well as parent in voluntary enrichment programs.

What does the program offer
• An opportunity for parents to develop themselves as nurtured and nurturing people,
capable of making responsible and informed choices in rearing their children.
• Focuses on promoting attitudes that enhance good parenting: respect, helping each other, listening empathetically and being curious
• Has an emphasis on the parent as a person rather than on the child or the child in a disciplinary relationship with the parent.

Assumptions Underlying the Parenting Journey Philosophy
• Almost all parents want to be good parents.The best way to raise hope is to start by identifying a parent’s strengths, and building from there
• Any individual affects, and is affected by other family members. We do not live in isolation
• People need an experience of feeling nurtured before they can nurture their children.
(Taken from the Parenting Journey curriculum guide)

Community Served:
Lawrence, Methuen, Andover and North Andover

Lead Agency:
Family Services, Inc..

Local Program Contact:
Elizabeth Sweeny

Phone:
978-327-6637

Visit CTF's award-winning online parenting resource, onetoughjob.org, for information and tips 24/7.