Parents as Teachers

For those of you with kids too young for school yet, look into your local chapter of the national Parents as Teachers program. Soon. We’ve been participating for nearly one year and have been really happy with our involvement. It’s so popular in my community there is a waiting list!

In a nutshell, Parents as Teachers (PAT) is an educational resource for families with children ages birth to 5 years. A trained representative meets with parent and child on a monthly basis to assist moms and dads in teaching their own children via age-appropiate, stimulating activities. Have concerns about potty training? They’ll tailor the next visit to address them through books, games and helpful information. Questions about fine motor skills? Expect some hands-on learning for parent and child. PAT also hosts monthly group meetings for all participating families–snacks, games, crafts to highlight the current season are actually lots of fun.

Miss Kris is our assigned educator, and Piglet loves her. I love her for being so patient and creative, and for all the positive things she has to say about my kiddos. Sometimes she brings blocks, sometimes paints, sometimes she teaches us a new game, and every month a new “library bag” of age-appropriate books to enjoy until the next visit. I’m consistently inspired by the activities she introduces to make sure my little ones learn and experience all they can–things I can repeat and recreate. What makes the program extra special? It’s free. completely and one hundred percent free.