At Pathways LA, we go beyond just childcare assistance. We understand that parents are a child’s first teachers, so our Family Engagement Program works closely with parents and caregivers to promote healthy child development and solid parent-child relationships.
We take a two-generational approach, addressing both parent and child needs, to achieve positive outcomes in behavior, emotions, academics, and social skills.
We offer various free services, including Parent Education and Training, Play and Learn Groups, Parent Cafes, Family Events, and Systems Navigation. Learn more about each below.
Our Family Engagement Program is designed to support children’s and families well-being. We use a strengths-based approach that focuses on building on the positive aspects of families, and we follow the Strengthening Families Framework, which includes five protective factors. These protective factors are essential for healthy child development and family well-being.
Our program provides opportunities for families to strengthen these protective factors, such as resilience in parents, social connections, support during difficult times, knowledge about parenting and child development, and social-emotional skills for children.
Parent Education and Training
We offer workshops that provide parents with strategies for navigating common challenges, such as tantrums, bedtime, setting routines, and school readiness. This training emphasizes positive communication, problem-solving, strengthening family relationships, and stress management. Free child care is provided for all parenting workshops. You can find out about upcoming Training on our Events page here!
Play and Learn Groups
Our Play and Learn Groups provide a fun and engaging opportunity for children and caregivers to participate in activities together. These activities promote children’s early learning and social-emotional development, allowing parents to connect with other Pathways LA families. It’s a chance for families to have fun, learn, and build social connections in a supportive environment.
You can learn about upcoming Play and Learn Groups on our Events page here!
Parent Cafes
Parent Cafes provide a safe space for parents to discuss the joys and challenges of raising a family. Through guided discussions encouraging peer-to-peer learning, parents can develop strategies rooted in real-world experience and learn about leadership opportunities in their community. They are also introduced to the Strengthening Families framework and given tools to support their family’s resiliency. You can find out about upcoming Parent Cafes on our Events page here!
Family Events
Family Events are monthly family-friendly events to encourage parent-child bonding and build a supportive community environment. These include movie nights, book fairs, back-to-school activities, Dr. Seuss Night, “FamsGiving” dinner, and our annual “Family Fun Day.” You can find out about upcoming Family Events on our Events page here!
Systems Navigation
Pathways LA supports families in connecting with and accessing services they need, such as child care, housing, food, financial assistance, mental health support, and much more. We offer referrals, information, and connections through warm handoffs to partners in our community serving diverse needs. We also help families develop skills and tools to advocate for their families.
If you’re interested in volunteering or sponsoring a Family Engagement Event, please get in touch with Helen Chaj at hchaj@pathwaysla.org
