Strengthening Families Approach

Increasing Positive Outcomes for Children and Families

Children are more likely to thrive when their families have the support they need1. The Center for the Study of Social Policy (CSSP) has designed a curriculum that focuses on five universally identified family strengths. Using this framework, those working with families can better engage, support, and partner with families to support their children. Using this approach has been found to reduce the likelihood of child abuse and neglect.


In this training, we will review the Strengthening Families framework. Our focus will help participants develop strategies to support families in developing the Five Key Protective Factors. Working together in this training, participants will consider what each protective factor means for families and how everyday actions can provide support in these areas. We will review the Strengthening Families (SF) Tool specific to the participant’s setting (i.e. - family childcare or center-based programs). The SF tool is a helpful way to review current practices and consider areas of growth. The process is designed to be flexible and to lead you to action, one small step at a time. The goal of this work is to help children and families thrive and reduce the likelihood of child abuse and neglect. We invite you to be a part of this important work!

This training should take approximately 5 hours to complete. Upon enrollment , you will have 2 weeks to complete all course content and submit your evaluation. Once the training is successfully completed, a .5 CEU certificate will be issued within 2 weeks.

50% of this training will address the needs of "diverse learners."

Learning Outcomes

As a result of completing this training, participants should be able to:

Identify risk factors for child abuse and neglect
Summarize the elements of the Five Protective Factors as described in the Strengthening Families Program
Outline ways individual programs can help families develop protective factors through demonstrated practices
Complete the Strengthening Families self-assessment tool
Develop and implement an action plan for program improvement based upon Strengthening Families data

The Institute for Education and Professional Development, Inc.

The Institute for Education and Professional Development, Inc. was established in 2005 to provide professional development and consultation services to early childhood programs and educators. We work collaboratively with programs, educators, and agencies to improve the quality of education and care for young children and families.

IEPD has master instructors who provide training, coaching and mentoring services. Each of the IEPD instructors receives training on adult learning principles, training design and delivery, and evaluation. All of the IEPD instructors have worked in the field of early childhood education, bringing their own experiences and "lessons learned" to the training.

Our trainings are fun, engaging, and are filled with important information and resources. We want to work with you, hear your stories, successes and challenges, and provide assistance to help you in your work.
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