What Is Parents As Teachers or PAT?

A program of cooperative extension funded by Smart Start and provides guidance, education, and support.

PAT guides families through the phases of parenting and strengthens the parent/child relationship.

PAT educates parents by providing information and suggested activities to encourage growth and development.

PAT supports parental decisions.

What does the current program offer?

• Personalized monthly in-home visits with a Certified Parent Educator which includes developmentally appropriate activities.

• Family education and support for families with children, beginning before birth to age 5.

• Seasonal and informational group meetings.

• Parent support groups.

• Screenings.

• Connections with community resources.

• Monthly newsletters and suggested family activities and materials.

Why is the program important to Harnett County?

- The program makes an impact on the families of Harnett County.

- Program staff is able to detect possible developmental delays in children and refer them to appropriate places while the window of opportunity remains open.

- Promote a healthy family structure.

- Increase parent knowledge of child development.

- More positive parent/child interaction and decreased child abuse/neglect in PAT families.

- PAT parents are more involved in their child's school experiences.

How do I contact Harnett County Parents As Teachers?