Extension offers ‘Strengthening Families Program’

Do you have a child in your life between the ages of 10 to 14? A son, daughter, niece, nephew or grandchild? Do you wonder how you can help them now to become successful in the future? Do you want to maintain a positive relationship with this young person during the challenging teen years? 

“Strengthening Families Program 10-14” is coming to Monticello this February, starting Thursday, Feb. 20, and is a proven effective family program that promotes positive communication, family bonding, and joint problem-solving skills. 

“‘Strengthening Families Program 10-14’ is recognized around not only Iowa, but also the country for its positive impacts on children, families, and communities,” said Molly Schmitt, county youth program coordinator with Iowa State Extension and Outreach for Jones County. “We are excited to offer this wonderful program to Jones County families.” 

The six-week FREE program will run on Thursday nights from Feb. 20 through March 26, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. This program will be held at the Citizens’ Bank Youth Development Center, 800 N. Maple St., Monticello. 

“‘Strengthening Families Program 10-14’ is being offered to any youth age 10 to 14 and family. Students attend the program with an adult. During the first hour, adults and students meet separately. Then, during the second hour, families come together to do activities and projects together. A free meal is provided to participants before the program. 

Adults who participate in the program learn there are other families facing the same pre-teen challenges they are experiencing at home. They learn skills and strategies for building on family strengths, how to keep communication open, and how to encourage appreciation for one another. Kids learn how to set goals, manage stressful situations, and show empathy and understanding for their parents. These fun six weeks are built around games, activities, and discussions that help build communication skills families can use to solve problems and set goals together. 

Registration is due by Monday, Feb. 10. Registration fliers are available on the Jones County ISU Extension and Outreach website: www.extension.iastate.edu/ jones/news/strengthening-families-program-coming-february. 

For more information about “Strengthening Families Program 10-14,” contact the Jones County ISU Extension and Outreach office at 319-465-3224.