Rachel Miller, family development specialist with Community Action Partnership (CAP)/CrossNet Ministries, works to implement the Parents As Teachers (PAT) program in ELANCO School District. PAT is an evidence-based program designed to promote optimal early development. Prior to the advent of COVID-19, the program involved home visits, but for the last several months, PAT has been held virtually.
According to Miller, because of high participation in the ELANCO and Cocalico school districts, the two areas were chosen to "hive off" from the county-wide meeting, instead holding their own virtual monthly gatherings. To make that happen, Miller and Alice Irwin of the ELANCO School District have partnered with Deeann Sherman, who was hired by CAP in 2020 to serve the Cocalico community as part of that school district's First 10 initiative. The initiative works to connect families and schools during a child's first 10 years.
To take the program a step further, Miller and Sherman have each partnered with their local library. Miller has connected with Carla Castro Barrows, assistant director and youth services librarian, at the ELANCO Library, and Sherman has enlisted Jess King, with the Adamstown Area Library, to help with the monthly PAT virtual sessions.
Prior to each themed session, families receive a drop-off bag, which includes the book that will be read along with many of the supplies needed for the planned activity. In keeping with Valentine's Day, the February session theme was based on loving and caring. "We focused on social and emotional wellness," said Miller of the program, which was called "In My Heart." King read the book "My Heart Fills With Happiness" aloud in English, followed by Barrows reading the same book in Spanish. Next, organizers modeled several ways to engage in an activity, which involved creating hearts. Miller explained that the core resources, but not all the supplies for the activity are provided because a goal of PAT is to use things from around the house and adapt the activity to the child's age.
Following the activity, Miller, as the host, divides participants into virtual breakout rooms so families can take part in discussions with other members of their school district. Miller noted that the time gives parents and children a chance to get to know each other. Each PAT session typically lasts an hour, according to Miller. A 15-minute debriefing time for staff and parents who want to remain is held at the end.
Parents of prekindergarten-age children in ELANCO or Cocalico school districts who wish to participate in the sessions may call 717-299-7388, ext. 3205 or call or text 717-538-1720.
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