Parent-2-Parent : Where Families Come First
The Arc of Essex County ’ s Parent-2-Parent program serves new and expectant mothers and fathers welcoming children with Down syndrome into the world . Since the program ’ s founding nearly 40 years ago , countless families have begun their journey raising a child with special needs with a call to The Arc .
Upon receiving a diagnosis , doctors , nurses , and social workers provide an introduction to the Parent-2-Parent program . Employees and trained parent volunteers of The Arc of Essex County are available for families on a moments notice to provide emotional support , resources , and a lifeline to other families who have embraced the experience of raising a child with special needs .
The bonds formed between parents , children , and families during the Parent-2-Parent program often last a lifetime , and , since its inception , nearly 300 families have benefitted . The Arc ’ s focus on serving the needs of the entire family do not end with the Parent-2-Parent program .
At six-weeks old children typically begin receiving early intervention services in a home or day care setting of their parent ’ s choice through the state ’ s early intervention system . Many Parent-2-Parent families and others , will also supplement these early intervention services by participating in The Arc ’ s Stepping Stones Early Intervention program . Stepping Stones teaches parents how to advocate for their child and prepares the whole family for the transitions to come . It is the only program in the state offering parent support groups , centerbased therapies , and a formal , individualized development curriculum especially for children with Down syndrome .
This individualized development plan coupled with a focus on supporting the entire family provides children and parents with the foundations they need to succeed . The vast majority of school districts note Stepping Stones graduates are better prepared academically , physically , and socially . And , the bonds formed between participating families are cited as the most valuable aspect of the program .
The Arc ’ s family-first commitment begins on day one and families can be assured knowing a supportive hand and lifelong resource will be available for years to come .
A child enrolled in Stepping Stones Early Intervention Step II works with a volunteer to build muscle tone .
“ The Parent-2-Parent program provides vital emotional support and mentorship to families during a time filled with questions and uncertainty . This family focus continues through the Stepping Stones Early Intervention program where parents and children bond with their peers , receive customized therapies , and build the foundation for a bright future .”
- Kathy Hinnigan-Cohen , Chief Operating Officer , The Arc of Essex County