What is Parents as Teachers (PAT)?

Parents as Teachers is an early childhood parent education and family support program designed to empower all parents to give their child the best possible start in life.    We provide services to families throughout pregnancy until their child enters kindergarten.   

         Why Join?

As a parent, you are your child’s first teacher and your home is your child’s first classroom.  Your baby begins learning at birth. Brain growth and development happens more rapidly during the first five years of life than at any other time. Parents as Teachers can help you lay a strong foundation for your child’s future success in school and life.  PAT is offered at no cost to eligible families within the Sherwood Cass R-VIII School District.

Parents as Teachers is designed to provide guidance and support to families of all configurations and life circumstances, including teen parents. Services are adapted to meet individual family needs. The program provides the following services:

 Personal Visits. PAT-certified educators, help parents understand and have appropriate expectations for each stage of their child's development. They offer practical ideas on ways to encourage learning and interact with children.

 Group Connections. Meet other parents from the area and enhance your parenting knowledge, gain new insights and share experiences, common concerns and successes. Group Connections also provide families the opportunity to participate in parent-child activities.

 Developmental Screening. Parents as Teachers offers periodic screening of overall development, health, hearing, and vision to provide early detection of potential problems and prevent later difficulties in school.

 Resource Network. Access to other community services that are beyond the scope of the PAT program.