CIRCLE OF PARENTS
Circle of Parents® is the National Network of Mutual Support and Self-Help Programs in Partnership with Communities, a collaborative project of Prevent Child Abuse America and the National Family Support Roundtable. This link will guide you to more information about Circle of Parents, its history, and mission as well as parent resources and publications.
WHAT IS A CIRCLE OF PARENTS GROUP?
Free community-based parenting support groups that are open to all families throughout Minnesota. This peer-to-peer support group model creates safe spaces to share parenting experiences and resources to build confidence and strengthen family relationships.
During weekly meetings, participants share the challenges and successes of parenting their children. Group meetings provide opportunities for parents to exchange ideas, connect with other parents, learn that they are not alone in this journey, and talk about their feelings in safe and supportive surroundings. All groups operate on a shared leadership model and provide non-judgmental support and learning opportunities for parents and primary caregivers of children. Many locations also offer a concurrent specialized children's group "Kids Club" so participants can bring their children, making childcare unnecessary. Children develop friendships while acquiring new skills in a safe environment with trained volunteers.
This program is offered at no charge. There is no age limit, no limitation on how long you attend, or on how much you share when you are a participant.
To learn more about MN Circle of Parents, please call us at 507.383.8842.
Circle of Parents Meeting Locations
Circle of Parents groups are held throughout Minnesota in a variety of communities and locations. Click HERE for a list of Circle of Parents locations open to the public to see if there is a group near you
Circle of Parents groups are changing the lives of parents across Minnesota. To learn more about the impact of this program, check out our reports below!
2019 Circle Participant Survey Report
Circle of Parents Training Series
The Minnesota Circle of Parents model is a peer-led, mutual self-help, support group program. At group sessions, parents can safely discuss with other parents and caregivers the challenge and success involved in raising children. Implementing a Circle of Parents group increases parent partnership and leadership throughout the community. Support groups also help create and strengthen prevention initiatives and other local family programs and services.
These trainings are offered virtually on a Zoom platform to help accommodate statewide locations and volunteers. Registration is required. CEUs available.
Program Orientation Training (2hrs)
This orientation provides an overview of Circle of Parents to prospective local advisory committee members and program volunteers. Using a combination of hands-on activities, discussion, and resources, this training includes topics including strategic sharing; advocacy; prevention education; resilience; cultural communication; and trauma-informed care.
Parent Support Group Facilitation Skills Training (6hrs)
Using a combination of hands-on activities, presentations, discussions, resources, and stories, this training will give you the basic skills to begin facilitating your mutual self-help groups with confidence. This training builds on the strengths of the past by providing greater opportunity to practice skills, increase knowledge of how groups work and become even more grounded in the values of mutual self-help, shared leadership, and family support. Protective factors are supported naturally through co-learning and empowered leadership.
Establishing MN Circle of Parents Children's Group "Kid's Club" (6hrs)
Children's groups are an integral part of our Circle of Parents programming. The goal of the children's group is to provide developmentally appropriate skill-building activities that will increase children's confidence and self-worth. This group encourages nonviolent conflict resolution, social skills, and enhances children's self-esteem through fun activities. Children develop cooperative relationships and practice problem-solving.
Register for upcoming pieces of training in the series HERE
How Do I Start A Group In My Area?
If you are interested in offering a Circle of Parents group in your area, please contact the regional staff in your area listed below. Staff will assist in the development of your group(s), provide pieces of training, materials, and technical assistance.
Lisa Deputie, Director of Prevention Initiatives - Metro
ldeputie@FamilyWiseServices.org
612.877.7810
Barb Sorum, Director of Prevention Initiatives - Greater MN
507.383.8842