A Framework for Supporting Families

Maine is strengthening families by enhancing protective factors that reduce the impact of adversity and increase the well-being of children and families through family, community, and partnerships. When protective factors are present, the risk of abuse and neglect decreases. Protective factors are conditions that reduce or eliminate risk factors in families and communities, increasing the health and well-being of children and families. Maine Children's Trust is the state lead for the Center for Study on Social Policy's Strengthening Families Protective Factor research informed approach which is based on engaging families, programs, and communities in building five key protective factors:

1) Parental Resilience - building inner strength
What it looks like for families:

• Families exhibit strength and flexibility to general life stress.
  
• Families recognize and value their unique strengths.
  
• Families identify themselves as hopeful, optimistic, and confident.
  
• Families have strong problem- solving skills.
  
• Families practice regular self-care to keep stress from interfering with nurturing their child.
  

2) Concrete Supports - knowing how to find help
What it looks like for families:

• Families have the resources to meet their basic needs.
  
• Families feel safe in their community.
  
• Families know how to have information and connections to services in their community.
  
• Families feel supported and valued when reaching out for help.
  

3) Social Connections - connecting with others
What it looks like for families:

• Families maintain multiple friendships and supportive relationships with others.
  
• Families feel respected and appreciated in their role as parent or primary caregiver.
  
• Families accept help from others and give help to others.
  
• Families establish connections and a sense of belonging with other families.
  

4) Knowledge of Child Development - parenting as children grow
What it looks like for families:

• Families identify realistic expectations for their child's development.
  
• Families possess a commitment to lifelong learning.
  
• Families practice positive discipline techniques to effectively manage their child's behavior.
  
• Families recognize and respond appropriately to their child’s specific developmental needs.
  

5) Social and Emotional Competency of Children - helping kids understand emotions
What it looks like for families:

• Families encourage and reinforce their child's positive social skills and set limits in a positive way.
  
• Families help their child manage and communicate their feelings.
  
• Teach and encourage your child to solve problems in age-appropriate ways.
  
• Provide regular routines for young children.
  

Click Here to contact a local Maine Prevention Council near you for free Protective Factors training.