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History and Philosophy
In 1987, TFC was designed as a group prevention program patterned after the Missouri based program, Parents As Teachers. Parents and children participate together in weekly groups where parents gain an understanding of age related behaviors, learn appropriate activities and develop skills in working with their children. TFC operates from the premise that all families have strengths and that infancy is a critical stage of development.
TFC is unique, and stands out as a model to be emulated. Made up of three components, it is not just a parent education class or just a children's play group. Combining these two elements and adding a parent/child interaction provides a "laboratory" hands on observation opportunity that enriches the relationship between the child and their parents. It is a very practical approach and keys into adult learning strategy that the more a person takes ownership of their learning the better they will learn and retain. TFC provides knowledge about parenting and also strives to change attitudes and develop skills.
Guiding Principles
By incorporating best practices from a variety of research based curriculums the needs of the families are addressed as issues emerge and practical solutions are tried. The curriculums offered by TFC encompass the following principles:
- Understanding a child's development and temperament is important for successful parenting.
- Parents are their child's first teacher.
- Families are strengthened through education, information, support and resources.
- Positive discipline is based on a desire to teach instead of punish, empowering children through loving interaction and encouragement.
Together For Children Policies and Procedures
- TFC Basic Beliefs (based on the philosophy of Parents As Teachers):
- Parents are their child’s first and most important teacher.
- Parenting is one of the most challenging and important jobs they will ever do.
- There is no one right way to parent.
- Parents know their child best and what works best for them.
- Parents who attend parenting classes are interested in new idea
- TFC Purpose: Parents will be able to demonstrate an understanding of, and be able to apply:
- Information on child development
- Positive discipline techniques
- Interpersonal communication skills
- Parenting strategies that help their children prepare for formal schooling
- TFC does not support the shaking, hitting, slapping or spanking of a child or any person.
- Discipline Methods appropriate during TFC group sessions are:
- Distraction
- Redirection
- Time-out
- Object removal
- Selective ignoring
- Logical and natural consequences
- If you or your child are sick, please stay home. Please inform the staff in your community when you are unable to attend.
- All diaper changing needs to take place in designated areas only.
- If a family does need to drop out of the program, the registration fee is non-refundable. Other funds will be pro-rated for the remaining 9 week quarters, if requested.
- Together For Children requires parents to participation in at least one fund raiser in a significant way during the year. (Click here for Participation Opportunities)