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Anna's Story

Anna, an 8-year-old girl, began attending the Children’s Program while her mother was in parenting classes. When she first came to the program, she was closed, tough, and did not want to interact with anyone, including her nine-month old half-brother. She clearly did not like people, did not trust people, and barely talked. The expression in her eyes reflected nothing but a blank stare. She clearly did not want to be here. Her first night of the program, her mother had just been released from jail - again. The next week she came, she seemed almost relieved to see the same staff in the Children’s room. She did speak a little more, and even participated in the structured activity. As the weeks progressed, Anna’s behavior gradually changed. She began to communicate more, answering questions with details instead of short responses. After three months, Anna was a completely different person. She talks a lot and shares her thoughts and feelings with us. She shares the stories she reads with us and can relate to some of the characters and their feelings.

Lives Changed

The biggest thing I have gotten is knowledge. I can consistently go back and refer to what I learned when something comes up and I’m not sure how to handle it. And I can pass on what I learned to other parents with young children.

~ Sharice, Parenting Training Programs participant