Parenting a child with special needs or health challenges comes with unique joys and difficulties. Every milestone achieved can feel monumental, yet families also face medical, educational, and emotional hurdles that typical parenting resources don’t fully address. Fortunately, there are specialized parenting resources for children with special needs designed to provide guidance, hope, and practical strategies. These resources help parents not only care for their children’s diverse needs but also care for themselves along the journey. A Program Tailored to Special Needs Families Recognizing that one size does not fit all, the Nurturing Parenting® Programs developed a dedicated initiative for these families: the Parents and Their Children with Special Needs[…]
Professional Parenting Resources: Tools for Social Workers and Family Support Providers
Professionals who work with children and families know that supporting parents is key to improving outcomes for kids. Having access to high-quality parenting resources can make a difference in helping families thrive. NurturingParenting.com, home of the evidence-based Nurturing Parenting® Programs, offers a suite of tools, training, and materials specifically designed for the helping professions. Evidence-Based Programs with Proven Impact The Nurturing Parenting Programs have a 40-year legacy of research and success behind them. Developed in 1983, these family-centered, trauma-informed interventions were created as an alternative to harmful parenting practices and have been validated by numerous studies and national organizations. The curriculum is recognized by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health[…]
Family Development Resources, Inc. Newsletter
A Message from Family Development Resources and Nurturing Parenting® ProgramsGreetings! For over four decades, Family Development Resources, Inc. has been committed to strengthening families through the power of nurturing relationships. We continue to innovate and uphold the highest standards of fidelity in delivering the Nurturing Parenting® Programs. As we move forward, we encourage all facilitators and partners to stay connected and informed. Be sure to visit our website regularly for the latest updates, training opportunities, and resources to support your invaluable work with families. Maintaining Fidelity and Excellence in the Nurturing Parenting® ProgramsFounded in 1983, Family Development Resources, Inc. (FDR) remains the exclusive publisher and developer of the Nurturing Parenting®[…]
Parenting Resources for Raising Teens: Supporting Healthy Adolescent Development
Parenting teenagers can be as challenging as it is rewarding. During adolescence, kids are striving for independence and identity, which can strain the parent-child relationship. That’s why many families seek out parenting resources for raising teens to help navigate these turbulent years. With the right tools and understanding, parents can support their teens’ growth while maintaining a strong, positive connection. Understanding Teen Years The teenage years bring rapid changes – physically, emotionally, and socially. It’s normal for teens to test boundaries and seek more autonomy. Understanding this developmental stage is a crucial first step for parents. Adolescents need guidance and support, but it must be given in a way that[…]
Parenting Resources for Raising Young Children: Nurturing Early Childhood Development
The early years of a child’s life are both joyous and challenging. New parents often seek reliable parenting resources to guide them through infancy and early childhood. Establishing nurturing routines and understanding child development are key to raising healthy, happy young children. With the right support, families can thrive during these formative years. The Importance of Nurturing Early Development Infants and toddlers grow and learn at a remarkable pace, and how we parent during this period lays the foundation for their future well-being. Research-backed programs like the Nurturing Parenting® approach emphasize creating a loving, supportive home environment from the start. This approach encourages parents to respond with empathy, use positive[…]
Comprehensive Family Facilitator Guide: NSF-LGC Overview
If you’re a family facilitator looking for a resource to guide your sessions with children, the Nurturing Skills for Families – Facilitator Lesson Guide for Children (NSF-LGC) might be just what you need. This guide is designed to help you deliver nurturing programs effectively, making your work both impactful and rewarding. What’s Inside the NSF-LGC? Why Choose the NSF-LGC for Your Family Facilitation? Incorporating the NSF-LGC into your practice can enrich your sessions and provide valuable support to the families you work with. It’s a resource designed with facilitators in mind, aiming to promote nurturing skills and positive family dynamics. Incorporating the Nurturing Skills for Families – Facilitator Lesson Guide[…]
Empowering Families: Nurturing Program for Special Needs
Parenting a child with special needs or health challenges presents unique complexities that require tailored support and resources. The Nurturing Program for Parents and Their Children with Special Needs and Health Challenges is specifically designed to address these needs, offering a comprehensive framework to assist families in fostering nurturing environments. Program Overview This program is a structured, 12-session group-based initiative that convenes once a week, with each session lasting approximately two hours. It caters to parents with children from birth to 12 years old, providing concurrent sessions for parents and children in separate groups. Each group is facilitated by at least two trained professionals, ensuring personalized attention and guidance. A[…]
Building Stronger Family Connections in 2025
As we step into 2025, fostering robust family connections remains paramount for nurturing a supportive and loving home environment. Strong family bonds not only enhance emotional well-being but also equip family members to navigate life’s challenges together. Here are several strategies to strengthen your family’s connections this year: 1. Establish Meaningful Family Traditions Traditions provide a sense of identity and continuity, creating lasting memories and reinforcing family values. Consider implementing the following: For guidance on creating nurturing family routines, the Nurturing Skills for Families program offers comprehensive resources tailored to diverse family needs. 2. Prioritize Open and Honest Communication Effective communication is the cornerstone of strong relationships. Encourage family members[…]
Holiday Stress Busters: Keeping the Family Spirit Positive and Supportive
The holiday season is a time of celebration, warmth, and cherished traditions—but it can also be a source of stress for many families. Between navigating crowded stores, juggling social obligations, and managing financial strains, it’s easy to lose sight of the true holiday spirit. Fortunately, the principles of the Nurturing Parenting Program provide practical strategies to keep tensions at bay and maintain a supportive family environment. Here are some tips to help you navigate common holiday stressors while preserving emotional well-being and connection. 1. Prioritize Self-Care for Parents Parents often feel compelled to “do it all,” especially during the holiday rush. However, parenting through holidays requires balancing the needs of[…]
10 Engaging Family Activities to Strengthen Emotional Bonds
Building strong emotional bonds within a family is at the heart of the Nurturing Parenting philosophy, which emphasizes empathy, positive communication, and consistent support. By carving out time for intentional family bonding, you set the stage for lifelong connections that help everyone feel valued, understood, and loved. Below are ten creative, low-cost activities families can enjoy together—each expanded with more ideas to make them truly unique, meaningful experiences. 1. Storytelling Circle Why it Matters: Storytelling fosters empathy, listening skills, and open communication—key tenets of the Nurturing Parenting Program.How to Do It: 2. Gratitude Journals Why it Matters: Gratitude encourages positivity, emotional awareness, and a supportive environment. How to Do It:[…]