Family Service

Mariana Solis-Valdez

Mariana Solis-Valdez is a Parent Educator II for the Family Service program called “Early Childhood Well Being (ECWB)” which focuses on children ages 2-12. She said that parenting strategies have to change with today’s times. 

Many parents are overwhelmed by how the internet, tablets & smartphones affect how we raise children. In her class, you will discover a new way to say “NO”. Mariana always offers her class as a support group, so parents can connect with other parents around them.

The program is an 8-week class divided into sessions that starts with an orientation which is mandatory to attend the class. Sessions 1-4 are in-person and sessions 5, 6 & 7 are check-ins, which can be a phone call or zoom or an in-person meeting. Session 8, parents meet back as a group for a graduation and a recap of the program.

Session 2 starts with what are some of the root causes of certain behaviors. Session 3 covers what can be done for moderate behaviors and how to redirect the child in a positive way and session 4, what to do when the parent and child are out in public and there are more extreme behaviors.

The program provides skills on what should be a realistic consequence of undesired behaviors. Parents who have attended the program have stated it has helped them and behaviors have changed in a positive way. If, after finishing the program, a parent needs additional help with severe behaviors, Mariana can refer the child to clinicians within the Family Service organization. The program is held at Family Service at the Neighborhood Place on 3014 Rivas Street and childcare is provided. To sign up for the class, visit www.family-service.org/triple-p.