Frequently Asked Questions
The programs the McKean County Family Centers offer are completely free. The only time a cost is necessary is when an organization offers a program through the Family Centers (i.e. The Childcare Training Course through the local American Red Cross) Back to Top 2. Can I only go to the Family Center that is closest to me? You and your family can go to any Family Center in McKean County that you want. In fact, sometimes, one Center will be offering a particular program that the other four Centers are not offering at that time. If it's one you would like to attend, you should feel free to sign up. Back to Top 3. Who are the programs of the Family Centers for? I heard they were just for the "bad" parents. The programs of the McKean County Family Centers are for all families. While programs do target particular problems, they also help to prevent problems that may pop up in the future. Take the Strengthening Families Program as an example. This program helps families of 5th and 6th graders prepare for the teenage years and all the changes and dangers that come with becoming a teenager today. It does this in part by teaching the youth peer resistance skills as well as helping parents discuss the balance between showing love and setting limits with their youth. So whether you and your family are having struggles, because every family does at some point; or everything seems to be going smoothly, all families are encouraged to participate. Back to Top 4. My family seems to be doing well. Why should we get involved in a Family Center program? Many of the programs the McKean County Family Centers offer focus on prevention. Basically, this means that the program helps to prevent certain problems from occurring before they occur by addressing the causes of these problems. To learn more about what the programs address, check out the Program Reports and the Program Breakdown page. Back to Top 5. Do I have to live in McKean County to participate in a Family Center program? Yes. Because of funding sources through grants, the McKean County Family Centers programs are only offered for those who live in McKean County. If you live outside of McKean County, call your local Children and Youth Services agency to find out what resources are available to you and your family. Back to Top 6. My child is in preschool. Can we still do Parents As Teachers? Yes. Like preschool, PAT is of great benefit for children. Additionally, PAT helps parents know what to expect as their child grows and how to handle different parenting issues. PAT is a unique service that is able to work directly with the parent, supporting them through the early childhood years Back to Top 7. I have to work during the day so I'm only home at night. Would I be able to do Parents As Teachers with my 0-5 year old? Yes. The great thing about the Center Staff is their ability to work around your schedule. So if you have to work during the day, they can schedule a time to come after you get home. Back to Top |