Isn’t it wonderful when you find FREE activities and community resources that want to support you? The Parents as Teachers (PAT) program is just that – a parent education and family support program serving families throughout pregnancy until their child enters kindergarten. They offer home visits by trained parent educators, parent group meetings, developmental screenings, and a resource network. PAT provides support and information which can help you parent your child with a more loving and informed approach. Programs vary within each community, but you may be eligible for a free music, gym, or baby massage class; or you may choose to build a relationship with one of their experienced parent educators. To find a program near you and learn more, access the Find a Program section on the website or contact the National Center at 1-866-PAT4YOU (1-866-728-4968) or info@ParentsAsTeachers.org.
Kristen Kardos, MA Ed., and Kathy McGuigan, MSW, the co-founders of RI New Moms Connection, provide affordable, accessible pregnancy and new mom groups throughout Rhode Island. In “Tips for New Moms” they share their knowledge, resources, and helpful ideas for moms just beginning their journey into parenthood or moms who may need a little refresher.
Editor’s Note: Although “Tips for New Moms” is written with the new mom in mind–to support women in their journey through motherhood–it is certainly not the authors’ intention to exclude dads. Every new parent will find their tips, resources, and insights helpful. I invite all moms and dads to share ideas on how they manage their new role as a parent with Kidoinfo in the comments below.
I used the PAT service for a couple years with my son (who graduated from it at age 3). He got SO much out of the program. My husband and I took turns when the educators would come out to the house just watching and seeing what kinds of activities they would do. They leave you all kinds of great information and games to play. We had a really wonderful experience and I would recommend this to anyone who has kids under 3 to do this.