What makes a strong family?

Research has found that there are five features called protective factors that help make a strong and healthy family. The five protective factors are: Parental Resilience, Social Connections, Knowledge of Parenting and Child Development, Concrete Support in Times of Need, and Social and Emotional Competence of Children.

Parental Resilience or “Being Strong and Flexible.”

Resilience is about your ability to manage and bounce back from challenges that happen in everyday life from the small stuff to a big crisis. It’s how you find your inner-strength.

More on being resilient

Social Connections or, your “Circle Of Support.”

It is easier to support your family if you have a network of support for yourself, whether it’s friends, family, neighbors and/or community who you can count on and trust

More on Social Connections

Knowledge of Parenting and Child Development or “Being a Parent Is Part Natural and Part Learned.”

It’s true, children are not born with instructions. All parents, including you, will need to learn what to expect from your child. Knowing what to expect from your child and how to respond will help your family build stronger relationships too!

more on parenting

Concrete Support in Times of Need or “Every Parent Needs Help Sometimes.”

Parenting while dealing with everyday life (chores, bills, jobs) can be stressful. Everyone needs help sometimes. When you are comfortable asking for help and know who to ask you strengthen your family.

more on concrete support

Social and Emotional Competence of Children or “Having Happy, Well-Supported Children.”

Children need to feel like they belong—that they are loved and have support from the people they depend on. Your job as a parent is to help your child feel safe and secure.

more on social development