Bayfront Youth Services offers a comprehensive Parent Training & Education program designed to support caregivers, particularly those who are caring for special needs children or are raising a relative’s child. This program is an invaluable resource for grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, and extended family members who find themselves in the role of primary caregivers and are seeking additional support and guidance.

Program Features and Offerings

The program is structured to provide a blend of education, support, and community engagement through various activities and resources:

- Monthly Support Groups: These groups meet regularly either in the community or at Bayfront program offices. They offer a space for caregivers to connect, share experiences, and receive support from others in similar situations.

- Quarterly Training Sessions: Focused on addressing the twelve life domains, these sessions are crucial for caregivers to gain insights and skills in various aspects of caregiving and personal development. The life domains covered include:

- Safety

- Family

- Social/Friends

- Work

- Money

- Housing

- Health/Medical

- Cultural/Spiritual

- Legal

- Recreation

- Emotional/Behavioral

- Education/Vocation

- Quarterly Parent Council Newsletter: This newsletter is a valuable resource for keeping caregivers informed and engaged. It provides updates, tips, and stories that resonate with the experiences of those in the caregiving community.

- Accessibility and Inclusivity: Bayfront ensures that these services are free of cost and open to the entire community. Recognizing the challenges of caregiving, child care is provided during the program to facilitate greater participation.

Benefits and Impact

The Parent Training & Education program is designed not only to enhance the skills and knowledge of caregivers but also to foster a sense of community and mutual support. The facilitated activities and training sessions offer a forum for caregivers to expand their connections and access resources in the community. Moreover, by focusing on a wide range of life domains, the program ensures that caregivers are well-equipped to handle various aspects of their role, ultimately leading to improved well-being and permanency for the children in their care.

Conclusion

Bayfront Youth Services’ Parent Training & Education program is a testament to the organization’s commitment to supporting families and caregivers in all aspects of their journey. By providing this multifaceted support system, Bayfront is not only enhancing the lives of caregivers and their families but also strengthening the fabric of the community as a whole.