ParentCorps

ParentCorps is a family-centered, school-based preventive intervention designed to foster healthy development and school success among young children (ages 3–6) living in disadvantaged neighborhoods. ParentCorps is implemented as a universal intervention (for all children) in early childhood education or childcare settings (“school”) as a 14-session weekly series for parents and children and professional development for early childhood educators.

ParentCorps aims to buffer the adverse effects of poverty on child development by engaging and supporting both parents and early childhood teachers. The goal is to promote children’s social, emotional and behavioral regulation skills by strengthening positive behavior support and effective behavior management at home and school and by increasing parent involvement in education. ParentCorps focuses explicitly on family cultural values, beliefs and norms, and recognizes the broad spectrum of strengths and multiple stressors associated with urban disadvantage.

ParentCorps supports parents and teachers of public pre-kindergarten students to improve early academic achievement.

Please watch this 5-minute video directed by Academy Award nominee Nathaniel Kahn for an overview of ParentCorps with comments from parents, children, teachers, and guidance counselors.

Mom and daughter participating in ParentCorps

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Testimonials After Participating in ParentCorps:

“It was very interesting and fun and very open-minded. It’s good to see parents getting together for the best interests of their kids. It’s good to unite and share opinions.” Parent

“The group was very fun. As parents, we got to know that we have some of the same values and beliefs even though we come from different cultures.” Parent.

“It was very helpful to hear that other parents are going through the same situations and I’m not the only one.” Parent

“ParentCorps helped me feel happier as a parent instead of being scared all the time.” Parent

“The program was very exciting and educating. I’ve learned a whole lot on caring for my child and will keep it with me forever.” Parent

“It was excellent to help each other learn how to manage our kids’ behavior.” Parent

“I believe I am better at my job! I acknowledge positive behavior and try to ignore inappropriate behavior such as pointing out the children that are doing the right thing and thanking them.” Educational Assistant

“The families that have participated in ParentCorps have greatly enjoyed and benefited from the program. ParentCorps has also given my preschool staff the chance to work more closely with the families of their students.” Principal

ParentCorps in the News:

Evaluation of ParentCorps

ParentCorps on SAMHSA's National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (NREPP):

SAMHSA's National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices logo

SAMHSA's National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (NREPP) is a searchable online registry of scientifically-based mental health and substance abuse interventions that have been reviewed and rated by independent reviewers. ParentCorps was reviewed and rated, and added to the registry in September 2012. SAMSHA is the federal government's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.