Find resources on implementing parent support groups, engaging and retaining parents, and the benefits of parent support groups.
Addressing Child Maltreatment Through Mutual Support and Self-Help Among Parents
Andrews (2014)
Handbook of Child Maltreatment
View Abstract
Defines parental mutual support and self-help and summarizes the theoretical rationale for why they are vital components of any community system of family care. The chapter includes information on the challenges and opportunities in translating current research knowledge to practice within communities.
Is Anyone Out There?: Finding Support as a Birth Mother (PDF - 148 KB)
Strickland (2015)
Adoption Advocate, 88
Discusses grief and loss experienced by birth mothers when they place their child for adoption. This resource provides strategies for professionals working with grieving birth mothers, including developing a support system, regular check-ins, and acknowledging Mother’s Day.
Kinship Support Groups (Chapter 59 in The Kinship Parenting Toolbox: A Unique Guidebook for the Kinship Care Parenting Journey)
Willett (2015)
Highlights the importance of developing a peer support group for grandparent and relative caregivers.
Nurturing Attachments Training Resource: Running Parenting Groups for Adoptive Parents and Foster or Kinship Caregivers
Furnivall (2014)
Child Abuse Review, 23(6)
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Highlights a training course for adoptive and foster parents that integrates attachment, trauma, and neuroscience theory and links them to practical challenges and dilemmas that caregivers face. The article focuses on the concept of PACE (playfulness, acceptance, curiosity, and empathy) and encourages mindfulness and reflection.
One Step at a Time: A Parent-to-Parent Guide to the Child Welfare System (PDF - 4,116 KB)
Rise Magazine (2015)
Explore articles written by parents with experience navigating the child welfare system.
Parents Anonymous® Evidence Supports the Strengthening Families Approach (PDF - 957 KB)
Research Profile 3, 2011
Highlights research on the effectiveness of Parents Anonymous programs to prevent child abuse and neglect and provides evidence for the success of the strengthening families approach. The issue also presents a chart that illustrates how Shared Leadership in Action® program elements align with the strengthening families protective factors.
Parent Leadership and Involvement
FRIENDS National Resource Center for Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention (2010)
Lists several, linked publications on parent support, education, engagement, and leadership.
Voice of the Child DVD Training Resource: Running Parenting Groups for Adoptive Parents and Foster or Kinship Caregivers
Willow (2014)
Child Abuse Review, 23(6)
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Reviews a DVD training resource aimed at helping professionals develop their skills in working with children and young people. The article depicts teenagers with extensive experiences with adult workers in discussing their needs, and emphasizes listening and respect as the means to work with children and young people successfully.