Family Support Center

Our goal is to provide

the families we serve

with the knowledge, education

and confidence needed to

successfully parent.

Helping them to build

a strong support system

and cope with life's daily struggles,

are also emphasized.

Staff is available

to act as a sounding board,

to offer advice and guidance

and to direct parents to other

appropriate resources.

 

Drop-In Center

The Drop-In Center provides parents with respite.

A place where they can come with their children

to socialize with other parents, talk with staff,

receive information and referrals, use the client telephone,

or browse in our donations room

where there is an abundance of adult and children’s clothing,

toys, books, baby equipmentand household goods.

  

Playroom

While parents are engaged in support center activities,

their children can enjoy the playroom.

A child care staff person, with a background in

early childhood education is on hand to provide

developmentally appropriate activities, which stimulate

the learning and creative potential of the children.

This staff person will also assist parents with appropriate

behavior management techniques when needed.

 

Educational Classes/Support Group

Classes are offered at various times during the day in an effort to meet the scheduling needs of the clients.

Most classes are typically part of a 6-8 week series. Curriculum materials are utilized which cover such areas as child development, parenting styles, behavior management, communication, health, safety and nutrition.

Emergency Needs Assistance

We receive grants to purchase new baby equipment,

formula and diapers that are distributed on an emergency basis

for those clients experiencing economic crisis.

Unfortunately, due to safety considerations we cannot accept

or distribute used car seats.

We also provide families with food from Gemma Moran Food Bank

and the use of the resources in the community kitchen.

 

Family Enrichment Services (FES)

Home based parenting education for families in which children

are at risk of abuse or neglect.

Family Enrichment Specialists:

• Spend a minimum of 2 hours one-to-one per week for 4-6 months

• Teach, model, and coach families in order to reduce the risk for abuse
  and/or neglect.
• Help families understand reasonable expectations for their child based upon age and developmental level.
• Show ways to engage children in activities that increase and enhance
  bonding and attachment.
• Help families:
  • Identify and prioritize family needs
  • Navigate and utilize community resources.
  • Establish structure and daily routines for their children.
  • Establish appropriate boundaries and discipline.
  • Work on creating a family budget.
    
    
    

Playgroups/Crafts/Activities

Playgroups are offered for infants 0-18 months,

another for toddlers 18 months to 3 years.

(See Classes/Groups link)

Crafts are offered once a month for children

and also for moms.

Other activities offered:

Wii Day, Movie Day, Family Game Day, and Mad Science!!

Contact us at:

240 Main Street,

Norwich, Connecticut

(860) 886-6600

Fax: (860) 892-5411

email: madonna.place@snet.net