Program Focuses on Mother-Child Bond

Studies confirm that a strong, loving bond between mother and child is critical to the proper growth and development of the child. But sometimes addiction can come between moms and their kids, and that bond is broken or severely damaged. Many of the children who come to Parisi House have already experienced trauma in their young lives, and some were born with drugs in their systems. They may face developmental delays and behavioral issues.

We provide intensive treatment to these babies and young children through our child development program. A major focus is on strengthening the bond between mother and child, and helping moms understand their child’s developmental needs. Many of the women who stay at Parisi House had traumatic upbringings themselves, so they never had a parenting role model. 

“Mothers learn how to nurture their child and be part of their child’s little life, and at the same time work on their recovery,” says Annette Villareal, a child development worker at Parisi House. “We assess the child’s growth and development, and help moms understand where their kids are at. We are a guide on the side. We help them learn their baby’s cues and how to respond to them.”

While moms attend classes, child development staff members like Annette provide important learning opportunities for kids through structured activities as well as free play time. Moms join their kids on Wednesday mornings for special bonding time, and every Friday moms and kids enjoy a fun activity that brings them closer together. 

Moms participate in activities with their children that not only promote bonding, but also help kids develop motor skills and other tools they need for healthy growth. Moms receive information that explains the specific skills the activity is building. 

“When they see how their kids respond, they get so excited,” Annette says. “It’s an awakening for them and it’s very beautiful.”

Program Focuses on Mother-Child Bond

Studies confirm that a strong, loving bond between mother and child is critical to the proper growth and development of the child. But sometimes addiction can come between moms and their kids, and that bond is broken or severely damaged. Many of the children who come to Parisi House have already experienced trauma in their young lives, and some were born with drugs in their systems. They may face developmental delays and behavioral issues.

 We provide intensive treatment to these babies and young children through our child development program. A major focus is on strengthening the bond between mother and child, and helping moms understand their child’s developmental needs. Many of the women who stay at Parisi House had traumatic upbringings themselves, so they never had a parenting role model. 

 “Mothers learn how to nurture their child and be part of their child’s little life, and at the same time work on their recovery,” says Annette Villareal, a child development worker at Parisi House. “We assess the child’s growth and development, and help moms understand where their kids are at. We are a guide on the side. We help them learn their baby’s cues and how to respond to them.”

 While moms attend classes, child development staff members like Annette provide important learning opportunities for kids through structured activities as well as free play time. Moms join their kids on Wednesday mornings for special bonding time, and every Friday moms and kids enjoy a fun activity that brings them closer together. 

 Moms participate in activities with their children that not only promote bonding, but also help kids develop motor skills and other tools they need for healthy growth. Moms receive information that explains the specific skills the activity is building. 

 “When they see how their kids respond, they get so excited,” Annette says. “It’s an awakening for them and it’s very beautiful.”