Preparing for Conversations with Parents or Caregivers Who Use Violence in Intimate Relationships
Use this resource as a guide to prepare to talk with parents or caregivers who use violence in intimate relationships.
Positive and Goal-oriented Relationships
Positive, goal-oriented relationships develop over time through interactions among parents, family members, and Head Start staff. These relationships are fueled by families’ passion for their children, are based on mutual respect and trust, and affirm and celebrate families’ cultures and languages. They also provide opportunities for two-way communications and include authentic interactions that are meaningful to those who participate in them.
Positive, goal-oriented relationships improve wellness by reducing isolation and stress for both families and staff. Staff and families feel supported in their roles when relationships focus on shared goals for children. In the Parent, Family, and Community Engagement Framework, positive and goal-oriented relationships are essential to integrate throughout the system.
Explore these resources to learn more about building positive, goal-oriented relationships with families to advance positive family and child outcomes.
Strategies to Support Families Who May Be Experiencing Domestic Violence
Programs can use this resource to learn more about working with families and children who may be experiencing violence.
Partnering with Families to Address Domestic Violence
Find resources that program staff can use as a guide to talk with families about healthy relationships and domestic violence in a trauma-informed way.
Tips for Responding to Disclosures About Domestic Violence
Learn about ways to support people who have disclosed or shared their experiences of violence. There are no “perfect words” to say. The key is to simply listen, convey empathy, and offer support.