While participating in the Family Leaders for Ohio Schools Academy at the Ohio Statewide Family Engagement Center, Ohio parent Ashley developed the “Parent Café” program.
Ashley’s Parent Café is designed to be a welcoming, judgment-free space where parents and caregivers can connect, share experiences, and strengthen their parenting skills. The initiative is grounded in five key protective factors: social connections, parenting resilience, knowledge of child development, support during times of need, and healthy parent-child relationships.
The goals of the Parent Café include building stronger support networks, protecting children, and empowering parents to take leadership roles in their families and communities. Through guided conversations and resource sharing, the program promotes positive parenting practices and enhances family well-being.
Through Parent Café, parents will gain confidence and skills, children will benefit from improved home environments, and schools will see stronger family partnerships. The broader community also benefits through increased access to resources and strengthened social cohesion.
Parents who attend the Family Leaders for Ohio Schools Academy design projects and create a plan to implement them locally. Want to be inspired by more parent leadership stories or attend the Academy? Visit our Family Leaders for Ohio Schools Academy page!