HHS sets parenting program; volunteers needed

 Broomfield’s Health and Human Services Department (HHS) will be collaborating with the Mental Health Center serving Boulder and Broomfield Counties in a Nurturing Parenting Program beginning August 31. 

Lasting 16 weeks, the family-centered program is scheduled every Wednesday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Broomfield Community Center, 280 Lamar Street.  Class size will be limited and dinner will be served to all participants and their children.  The atmosphere will be light, fun and educational.   

The program is designed to build nurturing skills and practices by emphasizing the value of unconditional love within a family.  The courses teach participants about the developmental processes of a child, the importance of offering children choices, and showing children they are loved and respected. Research has shown that the program helps parents to be more empathetic and nurturing caretakers, and helps address children’s behavioral problems. 

Volunteers are needed to help with children’s activities during the classes. Anyone 21 years or older with child care or early childhood development experience is welcome to volunteer to assist professional staff with children during the parenting classes.

Broomfield HHS was one of 16 agencies in Colorado selected to offer this innovative, thoroughly researched curriculum to Broomfield residents. It is made available through funding from a $24,000 grant awarded by the Colorado Children’s Trust Fund.