A special graduation

For many, it was the first graduation in their family. With faces beaming, cameras flashing, their pride was evident.

The event was not high school, trade school or a vo-tech. It was the first graduation class in the Parent-Child Home Program, an early literacy and parenting program of Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis.

“I feel proud,” said Rosa, mother of Carlos, 3, one of the graduates. “It is my first boy. I was so excited. It’s a very nice program. It was wonderful to see the graduation.”

Twelve 3-year-olds took part in the festive celebration. Each child and parent received a certificate stating they had completed the program. Each child also received a picture dictionary.

“It was clear to see that the families were proud of not only their child but themselves because the program is based around the children and the parent succeeding together,” said Deb Bjorgaard, PCHP Coordinator.

In the nationally-based program, which just completed its second year in Minneapolis, JFCS works with parents and their young children, ages 2 to 4 years old, in their homes. Staff models reading and activities to promote verbal interaction, using carefully chosen books and toys.

PCHP currently targets families in the western suburbs of Hennepin County and will work with each family for two years.

“When these children begin kindergarten, they are often very well ahead of similarly situated peers,” said Cheri Brady, PCHP Supervisor.

“Parents who have low education and live in poverty tend to lack the awareness, the importance of verbal interaction with their kids,” Brady explained. “This program helps parents dramatically increase their interactions. It is wonderfully rewarding for both the parent and the child.”

“It was my first graduation to attend,” said Florence, whose daughter, Mildred, 3, graduated.” She is my first daughter. I was very happy.”