1. strengthening families in your early care and education program C E N T E R F O R T H E S T U D Y O F S O C I A L P O L I C Y

4. The CSSP Process – grounded in extensive research Step 1 : Search the evidence to find out what factors really reduce child abuse and neglect Step 2 : Explore the connection between factors that prevent child abuse and neglect and what quality early childhood programs do to build them Step 3 : Identify programs that build the factors and learn how they do it

5. what strategies do quality ECE programs use to help families as well as children? protective factors CAN prevention and optimal development parental resilience knowledge of parenting and child development social connections concrete supports in times of need social and emotional competence of children

12. program strategies protective factors CAN prevention and optimal development parental resilience knowledge of parenting and child development social connections concrete supports in times of need social and emotional competence of children Facilitate friendships and mutual support Strengthen Parenting Respond to Family Crises Link Families to Services and Opportunities Value and Support Parents Facilitate Children’s Social and Emotional Development Observe and respond to early warning signs of abuse or neglect how do early childhood programs contribute to prevention of child abuse and neglect?

13. CAN Prevention Protective Factors Program Strategies Program Components Early Childhood Infrastructure

22. “ I find strength from the unconditional support and non-threatening environment here.” “ I don’t know how staff does it, but you know you can go to them with any issue and they’ll be professional and it will stay with them” “ I got referred to the program because I whacked my child. Before I used to beat her up like there was no tomorrow but now I don't.” Parents Say:

24. I used to be argumentative and my grandbaby’s really calmed me down—its what she learns in the classroom that has made the difference

26. “ This has really helped me—my child is really hyper and they’ve taught me a lot of patience and how to handle it.” “ It really motivates the child to bring out the best in the parent” “ My sense that I have other people I can depend on here is great. That’s huge.” “ I’m learning new ways to set boundaries—it makes me go back home and behave differently with her (my daughter) to reinforce what they’re teaching.”

28. “ I didn’t realize how hard being a mom was. Pat [the home visitor] was like a breath of fresh air—she gave me ideas for crafts and things that I could do with my baby. When I talk to mom’s in other county’s who don’t have this support I realize how lucky we are.” “ Of all the encounters I’ve had since I’ve been [in this community] this is the place where I feel the most safe, the most comfortable and the most welcome. “

29. Center for the Study of Social Policy 1575 Eye Street, NW, Suite 500 Washington, DC 20005 tel: (202) 371-1575 fax: (202) 371-1472 www.cssp.org