ENHANCING NURTURING SKILLS IN AFRICA AMERICAN FAMILIES

This curriculum is used as a supplement at the end of the Program for
Parents and Children birth to five years. It is presented as an eight
session program each of which runs 2 to 3 hours per session. These
sessions will be presented in conjunction with a field trip to different
culturally environments in and around the county.

VOLUNTEER MENTORS

The Nurturing Umbrella Program recruits and trains individuals to pro-
vide mentoring for program participants. Volunteer mentors embrace
the nurturing concept "Nurturing is the ability to care for and foster
growth in ourselves and others. We all need to be nurtured -- to receive
under- standing, respect, recognition, warmth, gentle touch, praise,
security, limits and appropriate expectations." Volunteer mentors offer
emotional support to program participants during and after pregnancy
and help the participants enforce and improve their nurturing skills.

INTERGENERATIONAL CIRCLES

During thers group activities, an older and seasoned generation of
women join the Nurturing Umbrella Program participants to share
experience and wisdom about family, friendship, and culture. These
positive interactions are expected to help participants appreciate self
and family, build self esteem, and increase family values.