Title: Describe components of an effective parenting support system.
Course: Child Development and Parenting (19255-36) > Section: Evaluating Support Systems that Benefit Families

Description should include

- sources of support from within the family (e.g., other children, parents, in-laws, brothers, and sisters) and their roles
- sources of support from outside the family (e.g., friends, co-workers, community organizations, churches, government agencies, teachers, physicians, counselors, childcare providers, parenting classes, home visiting) and their roles
- ways to match sources of support with needs.

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

- What kinds of support can relatives offer to parents and children? What are the advantages and disadvantages of information, support, and assistance provided by relatives?
- What are some direct and indirect ways that grandparents can serve as support for families?
- What are the existing community sources of support for parents and children?

Communication

- What resources are available to help parents choose a pediatrician or a babysitter? What support can parents obtain from other parents in similar situations?
- How can parents decide if they or their child needs professional help? What criteria should they use to choose a provider?
- What questions should parents ask when interviewing a new doctor, babysitter, or childcare provider?
- How can parents communicate to family members their expectations for caring for their child?

Leadership

- How can parents and children be encouraged to ask for help?
- What information and support should parents expect to receive from a childcare provider or teacher?
- How should one handle caregivers who overstep their boundaries?
- What factors influence a family's access to support systems?

Management

- Why is it important for parents to use the resources they need?
- What might be the consequences if public and private resources were not available?
- What is the effect of valid support systems on parents, children, and on the community?
- How can a parent evaluate different childcare options?