From the Desk of the NYSPEP Coordinator - 2013 In Review

NYSPEP is an amazing collaborative of volunteer members who recognize the importance and positive impact of nurturing parenting upon children’s social-emotional development across the lifespan. In 2013 we partnered with the Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC), NYS Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse (OASAS), and Healthy Families New York (HFNY) Training and Development Team to offer our audiences valuable trainings.

We’ve also adjusted our internal structure. We discovered the Executive Committee and Steering Committee were largely redundant. We've maintained our Steering Committee, which meets monthly by conference call and twice annually in person. We dissolved the Executive Committee but maintained its core of active Steering Committee members in the Capital District. Now known as the A-team, this group is committed to meet bi-weekly in person and by conference call. Other Steering Committee members join, as they are able.

NYSPEP supports parenting educators and related professionals who serve parents and primary caregivers of children. You may have heard of our Parenting Educator Credential, annual Strong Roots Last A Lifetime training institutes, or professional development webinars. Did you know? There’s a lot more going on behind the scenes…

TRAININGS, CONFERENCES, WORKSHOPS & WEBINARS 

I was surprised upon tallying year-end numbers to discover how many events NYSPEP was involved in. NYSPEP hosted twenty (20) events including webinars, training institutes, member meetings, and live orientations. We tabled and attended an additional nine (9) professional conferences and workshops for a total of twenty-nine (29) events in 2013!

NEW PARENT KIT & COMMUNITY CAFÉS

Our New Parent Kit, a project with leadership from the NYS Council on Children and Families, is now in the design and illustration phase. NYSPEP also formally adopted the parent-led Community Café initiative with leadership from the NYS Office of Children and Family Services / Children and Family Trust Fund.

WEBSITE & BROCHURE REDESIGN 

Earlier this year, we officially transitioned to www.nyspep.org. We’re currently updating some of the layout, navigation, and content on our website. We also redesigned our brochure, which is available on our website.

NYSPEP PARENTING EDUCATOR CREDENTIAL & VETTING 

Over fifty-five (55) applicants have been awarded the Credential, which was vetted by professionals in academia. We rolled out Tier III with Tier IV slated to open in June 2014.

MAINTAINING CONNECTIONS 

NYSPEP continued its involvement with Dads Take Your Child To School (DTYCTS) and Stronger Families NY Coalition. NYSPEP is one of the sponsors for the Young Child Expo & Conference in 2014.

EXPANDING OUR REACH 

NYSPEP, pediatrician Dr. Howard King, and other key supporters are currently exploring connections between pediatricians and parenting educators. We also met with Radio Disney, the Assistant Vice Chancellor for the Education Pipeline (SUNY Admin), the SUNY Teacher & Leader Education Network Coordinator at State University of New York, and the Director of Kinship Care Navigator – to name a few. Additionally, NYSPEP connected with Warren County Department of Social Services and the New York County Office of the District Attorney representing New York City’s collaborative Polo Rangel Initiative.

PARENTING MATERIALS 

NYSPEP distributed materials at all our events and provided cases of Parent Tip Magnets for DTYCTS Day 2013. Additional NYSPEP materials were distributed through partners such as Prevent Child Abuse New York’s Parent Helpline.

MARKETING RESEARCH & CONTENT DEVELOPMENT 

We recently surveyed key informants to discover how NYSPEP is perceived and what representatives from key systems want and need. We reviewed the data from that survey. Our Professional Development workgroup will incorporate some of the feedback into a field survey for January 2014 that will assist with developing our upcoming Strong Roots training institutes.

COMMUNICATIONS & SOCIAL MEDIA 

NYSPEP membership is now at 2,000 - double the number since I came on board last year! We produced twenty-five (25) outbound NYSPEP eNews and announcements. We introduced the Member Spotlight feature on our blog, which generated a lot of positive responses. We responded to forty (40) inquiries submitted through our website’s Contact Us form. There have been about one hundred (100) additional emails and phone calls that we’ve responded to.

LOOKING AHEAD 2014 

Resources (funding and volunteers) are crucial to what NYSPEP can accomplish. NYSPEP is never short on ideas, goals, or visions, but we don’t always have enough resources to carry these as far or as fast as we’d like to. Although we’ve chipped away at this, more work is needed. We also hope to build regional teams of NYSPEP volunteers.

Our membership is growing. We hope to implement an annual member survey to discover what members want and need. I also enjoy reaching out, meeting new people, and introducing people to each other. I look forward to getting out of the cubicle, making new connections, and expanding our membership.

NYSPEP recently received three inquiries from bi-lingual parenting educators asking if the Credential is offered en Español. The answer is ‘not yet’. Translations require additional resources. We look forward to when we are able to embrace bi-lingual and eventually multi-lingual support for the professionals we support and the families they serve.

Finally, based on the success of our Member Spotlights, I’m planning a new feature series on our blog to provide glimpses of NYSPEP behind-the-scenes and keep our members informed of all the various threads that knit NYSPEP together.

As NYSPEP is a true collaborative, our workgroups, Steering Committee, and other members will have additional ideas about what they’d like to see NYSPEP accomplish in 2014 and beyond.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED 

NYSPEP is comprised of volunteers who are passionate about parenting education and families, as well as the fields that serve and support children and families. Individuals volunteer to achieve various aspects of a project through small teams that meet by conference calls. A core group of Steering Committee members in the Capital District meet face-to-face bi-weekly to weave these fibers together.

Individuals can volunteer for a workgroup such as Credential or Professional Development or commit to a particular initiative such as the pediatrician project. Volunteers who can assist with a single task such as presenting a training webinar, previewing a facility for Strong Roots events, or assisting NYSPEP to expand connections or make in-roads with cross systems are appreciated.

Angelina M. Hart, NYSPEP Coordinator

We’re always looking for volunteers or interns in the Capital District who can type and spell accurately, have good grammar, and are familiar with basic html to assist with our eNews, blog, social media channels, and entering data into the database. If you're interested in volunteering or interning in our office, please email your resume with cover letter to nyspep@nyspep.org. To find out more ways you can get involved with NYSPEP, please call 518-445-1273 and ask for the NYSPEP Coordinator.

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Susan E. Perkins

Ms. Susan E. Perkins serves as Co-chair of the NYSPEP Steering Committee and is actively involved in several NYSPEP initiatives behind-the-scenes. She is the Senior Policy Analyst for the New York State Council on Children and Families. She has represented the Council as a principle member of the New York State Parenting Education Partnership (NYSPEP) since its inception in 2006. At the Council, she works closely with the staff of the Head Start Collaboration Project, the Early Childhood Comprehensive Systems (ECCS) initiative, and the Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC) on early childhood, parenting and family literacy issues across the state.

In 2009, Susan was appointed Young Child Wellness Expert, the state project manager, for NY Project LAUNCH, a SAMHSA initiative to improve the systems that serve young children and address their physical, emotional, social, cognitive and behavioral growth. Prior to joining the Council, Susan was an Even Start Family Literacy coordinator for seven years and an adult educator, specializing in child and family development/parenting education, for Cornell Cooperative Extension for seven years.

Susan holds graduate and undergraduate degrees from the Pennsylvania State University, is a member of the Association for the Education of Young Children and serves on the board of the NYS Family Engagement Coalition, formerly the Parental Information & Resource Center (PIRC), Cornell University’s Parenting Work Team and is an honorary board member of Literacy Volunteers-Rensselaer County.

ANNOUNCEMENT: NYSPEP Webinars Begin MONDAY, DECEMBER 2nd

During December, NYSPEP will deliver valuable trainings via webinars. NYSPEP Webinars are free to attend! There are no associated travel expenses, no detours or delays, and no long commutes to add to your busy holiday schedule.

NYSPEP Webinars are an excellent way to enhance your professional development by providing information that can assist you in delivering optimal quality service to families and children. Our webinars are developed and presented by field experts who are passionate about the topics they teach. You're invited to register and attend the upcoming webinars listed below.

The only requirements are a computer or mobile device with internet access. Listen by using your computer's speakers or dial-in. CLICK HERE to test your connection. Please contact your IT Administrator if you need assistance.

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NORMAL CHILD DEVELOPMENT: BIRTH TO AGE THREE 

Monday, December 2, 2013 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM 

Meg Akabas, NYSPEP-CPE, Founder of Parenting Solutions, & Author 

SYNOPSIS: The first years of life bring an abundance of physical, social, and emotional milestones, which are vitally important in determining future development. Understanding and educating parents about normal child development serves to reassure parents about their child's development or to accept when intervention might be necessary. Early intervention is critical to successful outcomes; parenting educators and related professionals can support parents and guide them to proper resources. Learn the behaviors that signify normal development along with the corresponding critical needs of infants and toddlers at each of the stages. 

AUDIENCE: Parenting educators, family life educators, Head Start and Early Head Start workers, social workers engaged with families, home visitors, family development or support staff, parents and primary caregivers of children ages 0-3, and other interested participants.

PRESENTER: Meg Akabas, NYSPEP-CPE, founder of New York City-based Parenting Solutions, and author of 52 Weeks of Parenting Wisdom: Effective Strategies for Raising Happy, Responsible Kids

For more information and to register, please CLICK HERE.

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A PREGNANT WOMAN NEVER DRINKS ALONE: 

ADDRESSING FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDERS

Thursday, December 12, 2013 • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM 

- OR - 

 Tuesday, December 17, 2013 • 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM 

Margo B. Singer, FASD State Coordinator, NYS OASAS 

SYNOPSIS: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) refers to the wide range of physical, cognitive, and behavioral birth defects caused by maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy with possible lifelong implications. It is 100% preventable and affects as many as 1 in 100 births each year. Learn what Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is and the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure throughout the lifespan; who is at risk and challenges of unplanned pregnancy; tips and techniques for working with women; new evidence-based practices and screening tools to help women address risky use of alcohol; federal, state and local resources for professionals and families; and how to help children who may have a FASD.

AUDIENCE:  Parenting educators, child care workers, home visitors, residential care staff, social workers, health care professionals, disability specialists, parent advocates, CASAC counselors, and anyone who works with women of childbearing age or with children who may have a FASD.

PRESENTER: Margo B. Singer, FASD State Coordinator, NYS OASAS Bureau of Prevention Services.

Please select one of the following.

For more information and to register for the morning session on Thursday, December 12th, please CLICK HERE.

For more information and to register for the afternoon session on Tuesday, December 17th, please CLICK HERE.

Recognizing and Supporting Grandparents as Parents

CHICAGO, IL, September 30, 2013 – Many of us celebrate our parents in May or June. But for over 5.4 million individuals, that appreciation comes in September – Grandparent’s Month – as the time to recognize the men and women who raise them; and with September coming to a close, we would like to express our appreciation for them as well.

According to the Population Reference Bureau, the rate of grandparents raising children has more than doubled since 1970, increasing from 3%, to 7% in 2010. As the number of children being raised in “grandfamilies” continues to grow, so does the importance of our communities to support these grandparents in ways that most assist their unique situation.

Grandparents are impacted differently than other parents including increasing health costs due to advancing age and fixed or a lower monthly income due to retirement. Similarly, children who come to live with their grandparents often face a new environment, away from friends and familiar faces, even if only a few blocks away, a situation that may result in isolation or bullying.

In situations such as these, support from the community can make all of the difference. Neighbors and friends can help these new-again parents by doing simple things such as offering to babysit which gives these grandparents well deserved respite, bringing home-cooked meals, combining grandparent errands with their own, or simply by taking the time to express our gratitude for the important decision they have made.

For those who are grandparents themselves, supporting peers who are raising children can be done in a different but equally important way. Offering to start or lead a grandparent-specific support group can give people a chance to not only sit down with others who are in a similar situation, but share tips and stories in a group setting that can be beneficial to the social and mental health for grandparents.

Simply being around like-minded people can be a huge help to grandparents by further building their support system of friends and confidants, and by helping children open the door to friendships with other nearby children. For other ideas specific to grandparents, GRAND Magazine, a magazine that is a good friend and partner to Prevent Child Abuse America, contains a wealth of information and support for grandparents nationwide.

But even if you don’t know a grandparent in need directly, you can still play a role in helping these families by volunteering at daycare programs or pre- and post-school programs that give grandparents who are still working a safe-place to leave the children while they are out providing for their family. It is also important that community members ensure grandparents get access to the same community services available to other parents. In many ways the wisdom and experience of our grandparents is a gift and resource they are happy to share with others.

Grandparents who are raising children again do so with joy and grace, but that doesn’t mean a little help would go unappreciated. So this September, I encourage people to not only recognize the important job that many grandparents have undertaken, but also to take their lessons of love and generosity and pass it on in our own special manner. Together we can support not only the men and women raising their grandchildren, but also the healthy development of children everywhere.

To subscribe to GRAND Magazine (delivered to your inbox at no cost), please CLICK HERE.

To read A Grandfather's Impassioned Call To Action by Jim Hmurovich, President and CEO of Prevent Child Abuse America, please CLICK HERE.

NYC SAMHSA TRAINING 9/16

Trauma Informed Care 

A Change in Perspective

Monday, September 16, 2013 - 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM 

455 1st Ave - New York, NY 10016 

• Definition of trauma
• Effect it has on the brain
• 4 strategies to reduce the likelihood of re-traumatication
• 2 ways it affects people developmentally, psychologically and physiologically
• 2 action steps to implement in trauma-informed practices 

RSVP: email name, organization & contact number to Dira Severino dseverino@health.nyc.gov

Dads, will you Take Your Child To School on September 17th?

https://sites.google.com/site/dtyctsny/

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Donna Morrison

Donna Morrison is an active member of NYSPEP's Professional Development workgroup. She also has volunteered to represent NYSPEP on the Stronger Families Coalition.

Ms. Morrison currently serves The Guidance Center of Westchester in New Rochelle, NY as the Early Childhood Director. She oversees six programs that comprise the Early Childhood Department including a New York State Education Department Licensed Therapeutic Nursery, Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) classes, and a unique mental health consultation called "Foundations in Feelings" for child care settings.

Ms. Morrison has served the Early Childhood field for over 25 years in various settings including public schools, private day cares, and most recently Head Start. She is a professional workshop presenter for the National, New York State, and Westchester Associations for the Education of Young Children. Ms. Morrison identifies herself as "An Early Childhood Educator passionate about Mental Health whose job is to listen to the children, believe the children, and speak for the children and their families".

Her professional affiliations include: New York State Parenting Education Partnership (NYSPEP), National Association for the Education of Young Children, National Head Start Association, Zero to Three, Early Childhood Network of Yonkers and Mt. Vernon (SOC) the 0-6 subcommittee for Westchester County Committee on Children and Families.

Ms. Morrison is currently co-developing NYSPEP's upcoming Strong Roots Training Institute workshop on Reflective Practice and is slated to present in Buffalo and New York City.

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Judy Wolf

Judith Rae "Judy" Wolf, serves on NYSPEP's Steering Committee and is Co-Chair of the Credential Workgroup.  She is also an active member of NYSPEP's Professional Development workgroup. She developed the Reflective Practice workshop for the 2013 Strong Roots Last a Lifetime Training Institute.

Judy is also the Extension Team Leader for the Family Development Program at Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Tioga County in Owego, NY, where she leads a variety of programs, from parenting skills workshops at two community-based family resource centers to in-home visits, that reach hundreds of families every year.

Under her leadership, CCE Tioga has helped develop and define the Family Resource Center and supported others in implementing that model. Judy is a New York State Family Development Credential course trainer  and serves on the National Parenting Education Network (NPEN) Council.

A Letter to Parents

A Letter to Parents from the Commissioner of the Office of Children and Family Services and the Commissioner of the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance encouraging participation in Dads Take Your Child To School (DTYCTS) Day.

Learn more and register your site at https://sites.google.com/site/dtyctsny/home

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Judy Nordstrom

Judy Nordstrom

Judy Nordstrom—Founder and Owner of T.E.P.E. Training Institute, “Training for Excellence in Parenting Education”—is highly active in NYSPEP's Steering Committee and Professional Development workgroup. She has also served as Chair and co-chair of the Credential Workgroup since its inception. Judy instituted several key NYSPEP initiatives including rich dialogues with SUNY, exploration of pediatrician partnerships with Dr. Howard King, and enlisting national experts who have vetted the NYSPEP Parenting Educator Credential.

 Judy is a professional trainer, educator and national presenter. Last year she presented NYSPEP’s Adult Learning Styles workshops and webinar, as well as several Credential Orientations. Judy is currently collaborating on the development of the upcoming Compassion Fatigue workshop for NYSPEP's 2013 Strong Roots Training Institutes.

 Judy’s inspiration and drive comes solely from her family. She states, “I always wanted children (and stopped at 12) but had not one clue as to just how challenging it is to be a parent. I wish I had known about parenting education and that it had been available to me." She points out, "The key to effective parenting education lies in the talent, skill and training of a good facilitator." Judy has worked tirelessly since 1996 to ensure today’s parents know about parenting education and recognize the value of support.

Judy graduated in 1995 with a Psychology degree from Norwich University and was awarded the title of Presidential Fellow. She went on to earn an Outstanding Graduate Student Award in 1998 and a Master’s in Community-Social Psychology at the University of Massachusetts. She focused exclusively on training in parenting education after a professor requested she start with a cohort of graduate students while enrolled in that program.

 In addition to family, Judy counts the rewards she’s experienced, as a direct result from her work as a trainer and in NYSPEP, as most important.

“I’ve always been a hard worker but have never before known such collaboration and brilliance! NYSPEP’s pervading spirit is palpable and unlike any work relationship I’ve ever known. The creativity, passion, and willingness to collaborate are breathtaking. For years, front liners—those knee-deep in work with families—have yearned for professional recognition but had no way to achieve statewide influence or cooperation until NYSPEP was born. NYSPEP breaks barriers and tears down silos, with our Credential team leading the pack. I’m gratified and blessed to work with such a dedicated group of women.”

The Neighborhood of Make Believe

The Neighborhood of Make Believe

by Angelina M. Hart, NYSPEP Coordinator

Recently, an old Fox News video resurfaced and was posted to Huffington Post. The video spends several minutes criticizing Mr. Rogers for telling children they are special, based on a statement by Don Chance, a finance professor at Louisiana State University, blaming Mr. Rogers for creating a generation of students who feel entitled.

Fox News also mentions the increase of narcissism among college students, based on a scientific study led by a psychiatrist at San Diego State University. However, in researching this piece, I found no mention of Mr. Rogers being cited as the causal factor for increased narcissism, aside from Don Chance's unqualified statement.

Interestingly, San Diego State University Psychology Professor Jean Twenge, writes, "The MTV show 'My Super Sweet Sixteen' has done 100 times more to normalize narcissism than Mr. Rogers ever did."

It should come as no surprise that -according to one source- Don Chance later contacted Fox News, retracting previous statements against Mr Rogers admitting, "I have no professional qualifications to evaluate the real problems or propose solutions." Moreover, Don Chance mistakenly confuses merit (earned) with value (intrinsic).

Sadly, irresponsible journalism has become mainstream. Most audience members don't know how to discern responsible journalism from inflated hype used to increase ratings, which saturates Fox's video. Fox could have cited the full source of the original statement against Mr. Rogers as coming from a finance professor. Audience members capable of critical reasoning skills might question his qualifications for making such a statement. Mentioning the scientific study on narcissism misleads by supposition that somehow the scientific study supports Don Chance's unqualified claim, which is a fallacy.

NYSPEP received a communication from Kenneth Barish, Ph.D., Clinical Associate Professor of Psychology at Weill Medical College, Cornell University, in response to the recently resurfaced Fox video. We invite you to read his response, published by Huff Post Parents (Huffington Post). Please CLICK HERE to view his qualified response.

Looking Upstream

In March 2013, two individuals involved in the William B. Hoyt Memorial Children and Family Trust Fund (Trust Fund)* passed away. James S. Cameron, founding executive director of Prevent Child Abuse NY*, was instrumental in establishing the Trust Fund and served on its board until retiring in 2000. For more than half a century, he was one of New York's prominent child welfare experts, providing leadership on child abuse and neglect treatment and prevention across the state and country.

Thomas W. Roach, Jr. served as chair of Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) / Children and Family Trust Fund* from 1997-2007. A dedicated public servant, strong leader, and compassionate human being, he spent 50 years in public and private service improving the lives of the less fortunate and was a tireless protector of children.

The following tale illustrates the value of 'prevention':

Several villagers were found thrashing about in the middle of a river and crying out for help. A group of rescuers rushed to the riverbank to save them. One rescuer ran upstream along the bank instead. A short distance later, he discovered a bridge had partially given way, which caused the villagers to fall into the river. He noticed two more groups of villagers preparing to cross and prevented them walking across the broken bridge. Not only did he save the people, he also eliminated the additional burden that the rescuers would have faced. 

Similarly, the William B. Hoyt Memorial Children and Family Trust Fund continuously looks upstream and invests in prevention efforts. Trust Fund programs acknowledge the challenges that families face (such as poverty, mental health, and domestic violence) while focusing on strengths and partnering with families to identify challenges and skills.

NYSPEP is pleased to provide access to the NYS Children and Family Trust Fund 2012 Annual Report. This report is dedicated to Thomas Roach and James Cameron, and their incredible legacy that live in the programs they helped create and the people they touched. CLICK HERE to access the report.

* Prevent Child Abuse NY and OCFS / Children and Family Trust Fund are both NYSPEP Conveners.

NSYPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: LORRAINE MCMULLIN

Lorraine McMullin

Lorraine McMullin is a member of NYSPEP's Steering Committee and Professional Development Workgroup. She is also a member of the ACEs Think Tank and Action Group, and the HEARTS Initiative.

Lorraine serves as Owner at McMullin Consulting Services, which provides workforce development training on Wellness and Stress Reduction, Trauma-Informed Care, Trauma Recovery, Engagement of Families, Integration of Peers into Program Design and Implementation, and Self-Care Strategies. She is also employed by The College of St. Rose’s Institute for Community Training and Research as their Program Manager and Lead Trainer.

Lorraine previously served as Director of Family and Trauma Initiatives at Mental Health Association in New York State. She attended State University College at Buffalo and studied Sociology and Special Education and earned a Bachelors degree in 1973.

Lorraine's core expertise includes Training, Workforce Development, Motivational Speaking, Program Development, Wellness and Stress Reduction Tools, Advanced Level Wellness Recovery Action Plan Facilitation and Grant Writing.

Lorraine is the selected keynote speaker for NYSPEP's upcoming Strong Roots Training Institutes slated for Fall 2013. Lorraine will present on the topic of trauma informed care / vicarious trauma followed by a process activity. Afternoon workshops focused around the topic of self-care include compassion fatigue and supervision (self, peer, and traditional supervision). 

Locations and dates are TBD (at the time this post was published). Please visit www.nyspep.org, click the "Join NYSPEP" button, and check the box to join our no-cost mailing list to receive the NYSPEP eNews, which will provide updates and registration links as they are announced. Information will also appear on our website's calendar as it becomes available.

Here's what others are saying about Lorraine via LinkedIn:

Lorraine is an effective trainer, sharing her extensive knowledge of social emotional development and recovery techniques. She contributes to the well being of all children and families through her tireless efforts. - Susan Perkins, Senior Policy Analyst at NYS Council on Children & Families.

Lorraine is very knowledgeable and up-to-date about events and trends across the broad field and incorporates best practices into her work. As an educator, Lorraine is able to communicate to a broad range of diverse audiences in intimate and large scale settings. - Lindsay Farrar, LMHC 

Her finely-tuned professional skills are complemented by her kind, caring, and thoughtful manner. I highly recommend working with Lorraine! - Heather Larkin, Assistant Professor and Social Worker

Her knowledge and expertise, commitment, and passion are impressive. - Katy Kaplan, Assistant Director at Temple University

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: KAREN KISSINGER

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Karen Kissinger

Karen Kissinger has served on NYSPEP's Steering Committee since 2008, and is a member of New York State Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC). She also works at the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). Her current work focuses on child care providers and supporting the OCFS Regional Offices. This includes training and licensing staff, enhancing quality improvement, providing technical assistance, and implementing policies related to regulations.

Karen states, "Child care providers strengthen families and communities every day. I am honored to support these 19,000 child care programs that serve over 500,000 children and their families." 

Prior to joining the Division of Child Care Services, Karen was part of Child Welfare and Community Services. In that role, she partnered with community-based organizations to prevent child abuse, reduce foster care entry, and prevent elder abuse.

Karen also serves on the Board of a Foundation to support innovative learning experiences and community partnerships with her local school district. Previous experience includes developing training for child care providers, co-teaching at a child care center, and serving on the boards of an after-school program and a youth development organization.

Honoring Fathers

Did you know there are differences in the way moms and dads raise children? For example, moms provide babies with a sense of warmth and security when holding baby against mom's chest, arms wrapped around baby, which limits movement. Dads provide babies with a sense of adventure and independence when positioning baby facing outward and bouncing or gently lifting baby in the air. Gender plays an role in parenting and in child development. Babies need engagement from both moms and dads for optimal healthy development. In recognition of the important roles father play in the lives of children, NYSPEP wishes all fathers and male primary caregivers a Happy Father's Day!

Below are two unique gift-ideas for Dad. Both support a worthy cause. 

 

Are you looking for a special Father's Day gift that supports a great cause? Ties.com is offering limited edition ties inspired by NBA stars Chris Paul, Chris Bosh, Kevin Love, Lawrence Jackson, and Ronny Turiaf. All proceeds of these hand-numbered ties go to the non-profit Prevent Child Abuse America to support programs to prevent the abuse and neglect of our nation's children.

Another way to celebrate Father's Day and support a great cause is to send a free NO MORE e-card, which honors the role of fathers in being role models of respect. Simply upload a personal photograph and select from a menu of messages that affirm wonderful men. No More is a symbol of awareness to end domestic violence and sexual assault.

NYSPEP Member Meeting & Training Institute

REGISTER TODAY FOR THE MAY 30TH EVENT! DETAILS AND REGISTRATION LINK APPEAR BELOW.

Recently, both NYSPEP and the ECAC Strong Families Workgroup initiated efforts to promote parent involvement in children's early educational experiences and success in school and center-based settings. There is growing interest in a shared definition of 'family engagement', consistent policies that support positive family learning environments, and opportunities for professional development. 

Join us on Thursday, May 30, 2013 when keynote speaker Mary McKay will present key principles - critical elements - for engaging families, challenges and strategies. Dr. McKay, Professor and Director at McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research at NYU, has published over 100 peer-reviewed publications and is a well-known engagement expert. 

A panel of field experts will comment in response including: Patty Persell, Director of NYS Head Start Collaboration Project; Vito Borrello, President of EPIC (Every Person Influences Children) and Chair of the Steering Committee of the NY State Family Engagement Coalition; Barbara Jaklitsch, Senior Project Coordinator, Center for the Development of Human Services, SUNY Research Foundation, and Erika Brunelle, Family Engagement Specialist, NYS Office of Children and Family Services. An audience question and answer session will follow.

Registration is still just $25 to attend and includes: morning coffee/tea and light snack, buffet lunch, NYSPEP Organizational updates, and an afternoon breakout session. 

Check-in begins at 9:30 AM. Program starts at 10:00 AM and will conclude at 3:00 PM. 

Please CLICK HERE to register.

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: WYN FRECHETTE

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Wyn Frechette

Wyn Frechette, NYSPEP Credential Coordinator, is actively involved with the Credential and Professional Development Workgroups. She helped to develop the NYSPEP Parenting Educator Credential and has supported about 70 applicants to successfully achieve the NYSPEP PE Credential to date. She is the primary facilitator for in-person and webinar Orientations and facilitates the Credential Review Panel, which certifies successful applicants. As such, Wyn holds an honorary seat on the NYSPEP Steering Committee.

Wyn also provides technical assistance to the New York State Office of Children and Family Services. She is a consultant to the Children's Trust Fund that supports the Family Resource Center Network and conducts regional meetings for the FRC Network across the state. 

Wyn is the recipient of numerous awards including: Pediatric Links with the Community Advocacy Award, ROW A Appreciation Award, 2005 NYS Child Abuse Prevention Excellence in Parent Education Award - Lakeside Child and Family Center, 2006 NYS Child Abuse Prevention Parent Educator of the Year Award, and 2009 Evelyn M. Harris Award for Empowered Leadership - FDANYS.

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: LIZ HOOD

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Liz Hood

Liz Hood serves on the NYSPEP Steering Committee, is Co-chair of the Professional Development Workgroup, and an active member of the Marketing and Communications Workgroup.

She is Director, Office of Educational TV and Public Broadcasting for the NYS Education Development, located in Albany, New York. In addition to supporting the work of public television stations' educational activities, she is actively engaged in the effort to improve the learning environment for infants and toddlers at home and in child care settings.

Prior to joining NYS Education Department, Liz served as Senior Vice President, Education Activities at WMHT Educational Telecommunications. Her early career was in book selling and publishing.

Liz is a current Board Member of United Way of New York State and serves as the Board Chair of 2-1-1 New York, Inc. She also serves on the NYS Early Childhood Advisory Committee.

Liz attended Skidmore College where she studied English and Secondary Education and earned a Bachelors degree. Liz's core expertise includes management and governance.

In her personal time, Liz enjoys reading, music and knitting. She is a singer and recording artist with the trio Huxtable Christensen & Hood. The trio's two albums are "Wallflowers" (Philo Records) and "Melancholy Babies" (Front Hall Records).

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: MARY HAUST

NYSPEP represents collaboration between qualified parenting educators and organization that employ, fund, and support the educators. NYSPEP applauds leaders in the field. Individuals who are new to or planning to enter the field are encouraged to join NYSPEP in preparation to become tomorrow's leaders. 

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Mary Haust

Mary Haust currently serves on the NYSPEP Steering Committee. She previously worked in the Binghamton City School District for 23 years, retiring in 2004. In her tenure at the District, she served as Director of the PACT (Parents and Children Together) Program, Community Schools, Youth at Risk, Even Start, Healthy Families and Broome Community Partners.

Since 1993, she has been a National, International and State Trainer for Parents as Teachers National Center providing training to over 2000 parent educators. In addition to parent education training and technical assistance with a number of early education and parenting programs in New York State, Mary has served as a writer of training modules and parent education lesson plans for New York State’s Even Start program. She is also a contributing writer for Week by Week, Plans for Documenting Children’s Development, Sixth Edition by Barbara Ann Nilsen (2012), the Parent Guide currently being prepared for the NYSPEP New Parent Kit, and the recently released Texas Learning Pathways.

Ms. Haust served as a Middle States Commissioner of Elementary Education and continues to serve on the Middle States Early Education Advisory Board. In addition, she currently serves on the Steering Committee for Coalition for Family Engagement, an outgrowth of PIRC initiative in New York State.

She has received a number of honors including: "Friend of the Family", New York State Association of American Family and Consumer Sciences, 1995; "Friend of the Child Award", BAEYC, 1997, New York State Award; William J. Bub Award for Advocacy and Leadership, 1997; Binghamton University Alumni-in Residence Honor, 1998; Cindy Chaplin Award for Advocacy for Children, 1999; Binghamton City School District’s Distinguished Graduate Honoree: 2002. 

Mary is married…the wife of one, mother of four and most enjoyably, grandmother of ten!

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: ANGELINA M. HART

Membership in NYSPEP is open to the public and there's room for everyone. To support NYSPEP's vision - that all children will grow up in nurturing families through enhancing parenting skills, knowledge and behavior - behind-the-scenes work plays an important role.  

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Angelina M. Hart 

Angelina M. Hart serves as the NYSPEP Coordinator for Prevent Child Abuse NY. She manages marketing and communications, coordinates events, and administers NYSPEP's day-to-day operations. A member of the Executive Committee, she is involved with both the Marketing & Communications and Professional Development Workgroups.

Angelina co-created and implemented a direct marketing program for Oracle Corporation as an independent contractor. Her campaign was ranked number-one nationwide by Oracle Channels Marketing in 2003. Angelina joined ESFPA and produced end-to-end publications; from layout and copywriting to display ad creation and operating the press. She accepted a position with NEREIA and was promoted to Communications Director within six months. She strategized with the Founding Executive Director and successfully positioned the Association to expand territory; it was acquired soon thereafter.

Angelina sought purposeful work after processing registrations and greeting annual conference attendees for Families Together in New York State (FTNYS) in 2007. In 2011 and 2012, she served as an event marshall for the New York Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services (NYAPRS) during its annual legislative awareness day. She previously studied Drug and Alcohol Recovery Counseling (DARC) at MCC and served as President for the DARC Club. She is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Upsilon Alpha chapter and the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC). 

Angelina freelances as an award-winning fine artist and professional musician. She has overcome multiple traumas stemming from adverse childhood experiences and strongly supports parenting education to empower parents. She retains contact with biological family and is a member of an intentional family, forged through consciousness-based communities.

Cops and Tots Event - Capital District

Fight Crime: Invest In Kids New York

Cops and Tots Event

Thursday, March 28, 2013 

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Howe Early Childhood Center - Schenectady, NY

SPEAKERS:

• Schenectady County District Attorney - Robert Carney
• Schenectady Police Chief - Brian Kilcullen
• Parents of Murdered Children - Patricia Gioia
• SCSD Superintendent - Larry Spring
• Congressman (Invited) - Paul Tonko

Please join for remarks in support of high-quality early learning from the prenatal period to age eight and story time with the children!

RSVP EXTENDED THROUGH WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27th!!!

RSVP by Monday, March 25th (essential)
joconnor@CouncilForAStrongAmerica.org

Jenn O'Connor, NYS Director - Council For A Strong America

What You Don't Know Can Hurt You(r Children)

What You Don't Know Can Hurt You(r Children)

by Meg Akabas

Author of 52 Weeks of Parenting Wisdom: Effective Strategies for Raising Happy, Responsible Kids

Armed with the knowledge that a baby traveling in a car without an infant car seat is 71% more likely to die in a car accident than a baby who is secured in a proper car seat, most parents readily comply with government regulations to keep their infants safe. When advised by their pediatrician to put their babies to sleep on their backs to reduce the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, most parents, again, heed this advice.

We are all afraid of instantaneous tragedies, and therefore strict governmental regulation and public service announcements work to prevent them, but we tend to ignore long-term, though more frequent, risks. We now know that a baby's environment and the parenting practices under which it matures affect that baby's future social and emotional well-being, physical health even through adulthood, likelihood of finishing high school, and chances of becoming a criminal or addicted to alcohol or drugs. Nonetheless, relatively very little attention is given to informing parents about how parenting practices and the child's environment affect a child's social, emotional and cognitive development.

Recently, I was meeting with a group of moms, and the discussion turned to the topic of the strife they were each experiencing with the fathers of their children (nearly all of the moms were victims of domestic violence). I quoted for them a recent article I had read about the latest brain findings on infants and discord: "Kids' brains are exquisitely sensitive. Even sleeping infants are affected by family arguments..." ("Troubled Family Life Changes Kids' Brains", Scientific American, Feb. 4, 2013). This piece of information made an impression on the women and led to a dialoge about the importance of dealing with conflicts in a non-destructive way and about strategies to diffuse escalating arguments.

This is just one example of critical material that most parents never learn. Naysayers might argue that all these studies and information just cause undue stress and worry among parents who are already stressed. But why should information about safety and health preclude information about child rearing decisions that can have a tremendous impact on out children's future and the whole of society as a well?

The answer may be that the effects of parenting practices are not seen as critical because the effects are not as directly and quickly seen. But, for whatever reason, we must work to broaden the scope of what is considered to be essential information. Parenting education is the logical means to provide parents with knowledge and strategies about the sorely neglected realms of social, emotional and cognitive development that will be likely predictors of their children's health and happiness into adulthood.

The work of NYSPEP (and every program that promotes parenting education, trains parenting educators and provides educational programs to parents) is critical to fostering strong families and happy and healthy kids and adults. Our responsibility is to share our knowledge with parents, to help them to understand it, and to help them use it to make informed decisions, given their own circumstances and understanding of their children. Let us approach our work with the goal of helping mothers and fathers parent with intention and knowledge.

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: ANN-MARGRET FOLEY

NYSPEP serves parenting educators and the organizations that employ, fund, and support those educators. NYSPEP recognizes that effective programs and reliable resources are essential elements for parents and is involved in the development of a New Parent Kit.

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Ann-Margret Foley

Ann-Margret Foley, MSW, is committed to improving the overall physical and social-emotional well-being of children in New York State. She has been actively involved in NYSPEP's initiatives for two years and serves as co-chair of the New Parent Kit Workgroup. To help inform the development of the Kit's contents, she has been conducting focus groups throughout New York State with pregnant and parenting families.

Ann-Margret Foley works for the New York State Department of Health/Health Research Inc. in the Community Perinatal Health unit. She is Project Coordinator for the First-Time Motherhood/New Parents Initiative, which promotes preconception health (healthy lifestyle prior to pregnancy), interconception health (healthy lifestyle between pregnancy) and to provide resources and information to newly parenting families to assist them with the transition to parenthood by providing supports and resources to successfully care for their children.

Previously, Ann-Margret Foley worked as Project Director for the Northeast Comprehensive Eating Disorder Center, a "Center of Excellence" in New York State for the treatment of individuals with eating disorders. She also worked for SUNY Research Foundation at the Center for Human Services Research through the School of Social Welfare at the University of Albany. She was the Survey Manager for the Healthy Families New York Randomized Trial -- Year 7.

Anne-Margret Foley has also provided direct services for various health and human service agencies, including child protective, foster care, and substance abuse in the Capital Region. She currently serves as a board member for CARES, Inc., a not-for-profit agency founded in 1990 which works in partnership with other agencies to assist individuals who are homeless or living with HIV/AIDS.

Ann-Margret lives in Delmar, New York with her husband, two teenage children, and 85 year old mother.

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Christine Deyss

NYSPEP recognizes that great parents are made, not born. Similarly, skilled leaders are cultivated. Like parents, many effective leaders are guided while developing the skills, tools and resources that lead to success.  Whether you are seeking guidance or sharing experience, NYSPEP values your active participation in our collaborative partnership!  

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Christine Deyss

Christine "Chris" Deyss

Christine "Chris" Deyss helped found NYSPEP in 2006 and now co-chairs the Steering and Executive Committees. She has worked at Prevent Child Abuse New York since 1988, when she developed the statewide Parent Helpline (1-800-CHILDREN) and has been Executive Director since 2000*.

Prevent Child Abuse New York works with public and private partners to ensure the healthy development of New York’s children. With a primary focus on programs and policies that prevent a child from ever being abused or neglected, strengthening families and supporting parents is a critical aspect of this work.

Prior to coming to Prevent Child Abuse New York, Chris worked as a parent and family educator, a human relations and communications trainer, family worker in a day care center, and research associate on a permanency planning project.

She received an M.S. in Human Development and Family Studies from Penn State University, where she also worked at the Individual and Family Consultation Center and managed the development of a foster parent training project.

She is grateful to two women who were instrumental in setting the course of her life. Her mother taught, by example, the value of flying kites and reading with children, and that the opportunity to study and learn is an amazing gift. Her mentor at Penn State, Dr. Louise Guerney, taught her the basics of strength-based practice in working with parents long before that term was used.

Chris has been happily married longer than some of her colleagues have been alive and has three adult children and five grandchildren.

* UPDATE: Chris retired from Prevent Child Abuse New York in December, 2014 and received the Prevent Child Abuse New York Legacy Award in April, 2015. 

Live Video Conference: School Readiness Project

Invitation to Attend the Live Video Conference (RSVP by 02-19-13)

You are invited to learn from the success of Chemung's School Readiness Project (SRP) and its partner organizations. SRP could serve as a model for coalitions and other organizations across the state working to help close the educational achievement gap. Select BOCES and School Districts throughout NYS* will act as host sites enabling participation in the video conference. Discover how your county or region may be able to replicate the model.

About the School Readiness Project

Launched in 2006 as an innovative early childhood education program, the Chemung County School Readiness Project makes sure that every child born in Chemung County enters school with the solid foundation he or she needs to become a successful learner.

Four pillars provide the framework of the plan: quality early care and education, parent education, health care, and support for new parents provided in their homes by nurses. From 2007 to 2011, the percentage of incoming kindergarten students who were school ready rose from 47.5 percent to 68.6 percent, nearly cutting in half the number of kindergartners considered unready for school.

*Participating BOCES Distance Learning Centers & School District Conference Rooms

• Albany - Guilderland School District Administration Office Conference Room
• Binghamton
• Buffalo
• Erie 1 BOCES
• Northern Catskills Occupational Center
• Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES
• Otsego Area Occupational Center
• Rochester
• Syracuse
• Wayne - Finger Lakes BOCES
• Western Suffolk BOCES

RSVP - Details - Registration

DATE: February 21, 2013
TIME:  9:30 - 11:00 AM (Event begins promptly at 9:30 AM. Please arrive a few minutes early.)
COST: FREE
RSVP: No later than February 19

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Questions? Email: sep@communityfund.org

"Almost all parents fall woefully short of their lofty child-rearing goals in some way or another. It's not ideal-but sometimes, it's okay." This is the lead-in to a father's intriguing commentary, I'm Not Proud, but I'm Not Alone: A Lazy Parent's Meditations. Noah Berlatsky offers an entertaining give-and-take on the idea that "In theory, of course, parents are not supposed to be lazy. We are supposed to sacrifice for the children and wake up at ungodly hours and camp in the rain if that will optimize our child's happiness quotient."that makes good reading for parents and those who work with them.

Thank you to NYSPEP Steering Committee member Liz Hood for bringing the article to our attention. It is available online at:
http://www.theatlantic.com/sexes/archive/2013/02/im-not-proud-but-im-not-alone-a-lazy-parents-meditations/273015/
Copyright © 2013 by The Atlantic Monthly Group. All Rights Reserved.

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: MARY I. COLLIER

As a collaborative, NYSPEP draws strength from its diverse membership. The Member Spotlight features dedicated individuals of our Steering Committee, who positively contribute to the field of Parenting Education in a variety of ways. 

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Mary I. Collier

Mary I. Collier, MSW, has proudly served the NYPEP Steering Committee for the past three years. As a Committee member, she co-presented a webinar about substance abuse and families. She also led a committee of providers to develop a series of parenting education pamphlets pertaining to substance abuse, treatment and recovery. The NYSPEP Steering Committee provided input on that project.

Mary's experience as an Addiction Program Specialist for the Clinical Services unit of the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, (OASAS) and unique view of the effects of substance abuse disorders on families and children has been an asset for advocacy of both family treatment and parenting education. She holds a Masters in Social Work with a concentration in Child Welfare Practice from Syracuse University. She has more than 20 years of clinical and administrative experience working for the betterment of children and families.

Mary began her career as a high school social worker providing counseling, crisis intervention, student/family mediation, and individual group therapy. In private practice, she specialized in therapeutic treatment of pre-school children, adolescents and family therapy. She also helped develop and implement Adolescent Treatment Cafes held in Brooklyn, Buffalo, and Albany.

Mary began state service in 1999 at the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). She also worked for Schenectady County Department of Social services as a children’s services caseworker. She is a member of the NYS chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and was named as an “O Star” by OASAS in March of 2012. She is now retired and enjoys traveling cross-country to visit her grandchildren.

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: VITO BORRELLO

As a collaborative, NYSPEP creates a strong statewide network which provides members an opportunity to learn from each other, discover various parenting education programs, and strengthen connections throughout the state. NYSPEP invites you to expand your own network by reaching out to individuals who are committed to developing strong partnerships.

NYSPEP Member Spotlight: Vito Borrello 

Vito J. Borrello serves on the NYSPEP Steering Committee and is focused on developing strong partnerships with the public and private sectors regionally and nationally, in order to elevate policies and practices for parenting education and family engagement in education.

Since 1995, Vito J. Borrello has served as President of EPIC - Every Person Influences Children. EPIC is a national organization providing prevention programs which have been implemented in 16 states and Singapore that help families, schools and communities raise children to become responsible and capable adults.

Mr. Borrello serves as a member of the National Family, School and Community Engagement Working Group, and just completed two terms as an At-Large Board Member for National PTA. He is also a Board member with NY State PTA. In 2011, he was appointed by the NY State Education Department for the workgroups Teacher Standards and Striving Readers.

Mr. Borrello is Chairman for the Care Management Coalition of Western New York. He is a Board Member for Buffalo's Read to Succeed literacy initiative and the University of Buffalo's Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention. He also serves on the NY State Family Engagement Coalition Steering Committee.

Mr. Borrello is a 2009 graduate of the Community Health Foundation Fellowship program and a 1998 graduate of Leadership Buffalo. He has a Bachelors Degree in Music Education from Wittenberg University and resides in East Amherst, New York with his wife, Maria, and daughters, Marisa, and Samantha.

Poverty Affects Early Childhood, Parenting Styles, and Long-Term Outcomes

Nicholas D. Kristof, New York Times columnist and two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize, recently penned an editorial exposing poverty's effects on children. He states evidence that we are loosing President Lyndon Johnson's "war on poverty". He further suggests investing in our nation and its children by diverting foreign war funding to early childhood programs.

Kristof cites disparity of educational opportunities between children residing in wealthy neighborhoods and those from low-income areas, and relates the disparity to different parenting styles, attitudes, and behaviors. Kristof recounts an experience from his own childhood. A friend's grandparent forced his friend to return a library card. If you're wondering why, please CLICK HERE to read the full article...

Young Child Expo & Conference

Fordham University’s Graduate School of Education and Los Niños Services are sponsoring the 10th Annual Young Child Expo & Conference to take place from April 17th- 19th, 2013. The primary purpose of the event is to provide parents and professionals with information and resources to help all children reach their full potential. Click on the flyer below for more details on this event.

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: LIZ BELSITO

Are you interested in learning more about initiatives throughout the state? NYSPEP is pleased to introduce another individual who has dedicated herself to making a positive impact in the field of parenting education. Member Spotlights are an invitation to begin conversations and build bridges. Start networking by commenting below or email nyspep@preventchildabuseny.org

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: LIZ BELSITO

Liz Belsito, MSW, sits on the Steering Committee of the New York State Parenting Education Partnership (NYSPEP). She also serves as Co-Chair for NYSPEP's New Parent Kit Workgroup. Through NYSPEP, Liz is working to develop resource materials for expectant parents.

Liz works as the Early Childhood Comprehensive Systems Project Coordinator at the NYS Council on Children and Families in Rensselaer, NY. She coordinates the Community Café project, which promotes parent leadership and strengthens community supports for parents. She also works closely with the NYS Early Childhood Advisory Council.

Before joining the Council on Children and Families, Liz worked in several direct service positions. She was as a Homeless Outreach Worker in Denver, Colorado. She was also a supervisor at a program for mothers with a history of addition and homelessness located in Central Massachusetts.

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: MEG AKABAS

Did you know that nearly twenty volunteers across the state serve on NYSPEP's Steering Committee? NYSPEP intends to improve its communications, build bridges, and invite more conversations in 2013. NYSPEP is pleased to introduce the individuals who have dedicated themselves to making a positive impact in the field of parenting education. The NYSPEP Member Spotlight will be featured throughout the year on this blog and in our eNewsletter.

NYSPEP MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: MEG AKABAS 

Meg Akabas, NYSPEP-CPE, is a member of the NYSPEP Steering Committee and Tier II awardee of the NYSPEP Parenting Educator Credential. She has over 18 years of leadership experience in nursery and elementary schools. She has more than 20 years personal experience as a parent. 

Meg is the founder of Parenting Solutions in New York City. She regularly facilitates workshops and provides one-on-one consultations for parents and teachers. Meg states, "I firmly believe parenting education is for everyone - not just 'struggling' parents."

NYSPEP is excited to share two pieces of news concerning Meg, who is also an author. Meg recently wrote an article for Parenting.com. The article was also picked up by Huffington Post Parents and CNN. Meg suggests parents resolve to give themselves a break and think small. Click here to read A Different Kind of Parenting Resolution.

Meg also authored a new book 52 Weeks of Parenting Wisdom: Effective Strategies for Raising Happy, Responsible Kids. The book offers step-by-step strategies to make one single, attainable, positive change per week. The chapters cover specific topics of concern and are effective for infancy through elementary school ages.

A public launch party for 52 Weeks of Parenting Wisdom will be held Tuesday, January 8th from 7:00 to 8:00 pm at Bank Street Bookstore located at 112th Street and Broadway in New York City. When you meet Meg, be sure to thank her for volunteering to serve NYSPEP.