Strong Foundations

Strong Foundations is an adaptation of the Family Foundations (FF) parenting education program designed for pregnant and parenting teens in high schools. Strong Foundations aims to help teens develop a team approach to caregiving, maintain family bonds, reduce stress, and promote adult and child well-being. In Strong Foundations, teens focus on building a parenting team consisting of one, two, or more people who can support them and the child. Teens participate in Strong Foundations individually and typically begin Strong Foundations classes during pregnancy. 

Two facilitators, one female and one male, deliver Strong Foundations to groups of teens over ten classes designed to prepare teens for parenting before the birth of the child and help teens after the birth of the child. Class 1 introduces the program and the concept of the parenting team. Class 2 focuses on tools for taking care of oneself, the relationship, and the parenting team. Class 3 explains the concept of readiness to be a parent and focuses on skills for communication and listening. Class 4 introduces tools to manage conflict and discusses how emotions affect the child. Class 5 focuses on skills to help teens work with their parenting team, manage conflict within the team, and change negative thoughts. Class 6 focuses on working together as a parenting team and sharing childcare responsibilities. Class 7 focuses on problem solving and how to help children feel secure. Class 8 focuses on learning about parenting styles and practicing problem solving. Class 9 focuses on how to work as a parenting team if the romantic relationship changes. Class 10 focuses on establishing boundaries with the child’s grandparents and identifying how grandparents can be sources of support. 

Strong Foundations does not currently meet criteria to receive a rating because no studies met eligibility criteria for review.

Date Research Evidence Last Reviewed: Nov 2023

Sources

The following sources informed the program or service description, target population, and program or service delivery and implementation information: the program or service manual, and the program or service developer’s website.

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