Build Stronger Connections With Families

The relationships children have at home matter. You can help make those relationships stronger.

Parents and caregivers are some of the most important influences in a child's life. They help shape how children communicate, manage emotions, build relationships and handle challenges.

As a professional, you have opportunities to encourage and support parents along the way.

Parents Lead gives you practical tools, conversation guides and resources to help you build trust with families, encourage positive parenting practices and strengthen parent-child connections.

Make Parent Engagement Meaningful

Strong relationships with families start with trust.

Working with parents is about more than sharing information or addressing concerns. It's about building relationships where parents feel respected, included and supported.

Every interaction is an opportunity to strengthen that connection.

Start With Strengths

Recognize what parents are already doing well. Every family has strengths. Acknowledging them can help build confidence and create a positive starting point for conversations.

Listen Without Judgment

Give parents time and space to share their experiences, concerns and questions. Listen to understand rather than jumping straight to advice or solutions.

Make It a Partnership

Parents know their children in ways others may not. Include them in conversations, listen to their perspectives and work together to identify ways to support their child.

Keep the Connection Going

Build relationships beyond difficult conversations. Share positive updates, check in and look for opportunities to stay connected.

Remember: Parents may be dealing with challenges you cannot see. A welcoming, supportive approach can help families feel comfortable asking questions and accepting support.

Start the Conversation

Sometimes the hardest part is knowing what to say.

Conversations with parents about a child's behavior, mental health or well-being can feel difficult. You may be unsure how to bring up a concern or how a parent will respond.

Starting with care, curiosity and a willingness to listen can make those conversations easier.

When a Parent Seems Overwhelmed

Instead of jumping in with advice, start by checking in.

Try asking:

• How have things been going at home?
• What's been most challenging lately?
• What kind of support would be helpful right now?

When a Child Is Struggling

Focus on what you've noticed and give parents an opportunity to share their perspective.

Try asking:

• Have you noticed any changes at home?
• How does your child usually handle difficult situations?
• What seems to help your child feel better?

When You Notice Changes in Behavior

Share specific observations without making assumptions.

Try saying:

• I've noticed your child seems a little quieter than usual. Have you noticed anything different?
• I'd like to check in and see how things are going.
• How can we work together to support your child?

When a Parent Is Hesitant to Engage

Give parents time, respect their perspective and keep the door open.

Try saying:

• I understand this may be a lot to think about.
• We want to work with you, not make things harder.
• We're here when you're ready to talk.

When You Want to Encourage Prevention

Help parents see that small, everyday actions can make a difference.

Try asking:

• What are some ways you and your child enjoy spending time together?
• When does your child seem most comfortable talking with you?
• What helps your child feel supported?

Help Parents Build Protective Factors at Home

Small moments can make a big difference.

Protective factors are the strengths, relationships and resources that help children and families handle challenges and support healthy development.

You can help parents recognize and build these strengths through everyday parenting practices.

Find Resources to Share With Parents

Give families something they can take home.

Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is give a parent a resource they can use after a conversation ends.

Parents Lead offers easy-to-understand information, activities and tools that help parents put prevention into practice.

When Families Need Additional Support

Sometimes families need more than a conversation. Help them find the right support.

Parents and caregivers may face challenges that affect their ability to support their children's well-being. Stress, mental health concerns, substance use, trauma and other difficult experiences can affect the entire family.

You don't have to have all the answers. You can help parents recognize when additional support may be needed and connect them with appropriate resources.

Know When to Offer Additional Support

Pay attention to concerns such as:

• Changes in a child's behavior, mood or relationships.
• Ongoing stress or emotional challenges.
• Concerns about alcohol or other drug use.
• Bullying, isolation or difficulty connecting with others.
• Signs that a parent or caregiver may be overwhelmed.
• Concerns about a child's safety or immediate well-being.

Help Families Take the Next Step

• Listen to concerns and take them seriously.
• Follow your organization's policies and procedures.
• Encourage parents to connect with appropriate behavioral health services.
• Share trusted community and family support resources.
• Follow up when possible to help families stay connected.

For immediate safety concerns, follow established emergency and crisis response procedures.

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