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Family Place: services that help parents be better parents

"Family Place" is a new addition to the library's existing services for young children and their families and caregivers.

It is a service model that emphasizes the important role parents (and caregivers who act as parents) play as a child's first teacher. During the first six years of life, children's bodies and brains grow and develop rapidly through a series of predictable stages that prepare them for formal learning in school. Playing, talking, singing, and activities that promote bonding with parents are important to fostering healthy physical, emotional and intellectual development for children.

The library's Family Place services include programs, information resources, links to community resources, and opportunities to empower parents and caregivers by "networking" with each other so that they can overcome that feeling of isolation.

This project has been (partially) funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) as administered by the PA Office of Commonwealth Libraries
Elements of the Family Place program
"Giggle, Squiggle and Discover: the Parent / Child Workshop"
(Click for date and time information)

This multi-week series of programs combines a playgroup experience for children ages 12 - 36 months with informal parenting education.

Pre-registration is required for these workshops, scheduled in between the library's customary 5-week series of story times. To register, telephone Children's Librarian Ellyn Benner at (215) 443-2609 ext. 206 or send an email to Ellyn Benner.

During the sessions resource people from local organizatons expert in various child development issues will be on hand to informally talk with parents while their young children play with a special collection of toys provided by the library. Parents will have the chance to ask questions, discuss concerns, and share ideas with each other.
Parenting information

Books, magazines, videos and handouts will be available to check out and take home. A special shelf in the children's area will bring together the library's most practical books on parenting and child development so that parents can browse while their children look for picture books to take home.

The library offers on-line information on child development via its website. Parents will find links to local organizations and authoritative websites on the Horsham Township Library's website.

Community resources

Resource people with expertise in various issues such as parenting, nutrition, speech and hearing will attend the "Giggle, Squiggle and Discover" programs. Parents will be able to tap their knowledge, talk with them informally, ask questions, and share ideas with one another. Website links to local organizations and services will help parents locate sources for special help with special needs.