In a child’s early years, the foundations for growth and independence are established. For families of youth facing developmental challenges, the right support can be transformative.
Working in Everett for 61 years and formerly known as the Little Red School House, ChildStrive partners with families to empower them and foster lasting progress, explains Program Manager, Pam Bainbridge.
Programs including the Nurse-Family Partnership, Parents as Teachers, Outreach Counseling and ECEAP Preschool focus on building strong relationships and resilient families while addressing challenges related to economic hardship, trauma or first-time parenting.”
The Early Supports for Infants and Toddlers program (ESIT) serves children from birth to age three and emphasizes parent education as the best way to guide their child’s development. “Parents are the experts on their child, and we use that expertise to shape the support we provide,” Bainbridge says. The program includes speech, occupational and physical therapists, as well as special educators, who collaborate with families to develop individualized plans tailored to each child’s unique needs.
Meeting families where they are
The program delivers services in natural environments like homes, daycares or parks. These familiar settings help children learn and thrive without added stress. “Children learn better in an environment where they’re comfortable,” Bainbridge says. This approach allows parents to integrate developmental strategies into daily routines, making progress sustainable.
Building trust is essential, especially for families dealing with challenges such as housing instability or past trauma. “To learn and grow, you need to feel safe,” explains Sarah Pulliam, Director of Family and Community Programs.
Broad support for families with children from 0 to 5
ChildStrive’s commitment to families extends far beyond the ESIT program. The organization offers a range of programs to support families with children from birth to age five, ensuring no diagnosis or developmental delay is required to access help. From the Early Supports for Infants and Toddlers program to the free Clever Sprouts ECEAP preschool for income-eligible families, ChildStrive’s services cater to diverse needs.
Families facing difficulties are encouraged to reach out for tailored support and resources in safe, inclusive environments.
Respecting cultural diversity
ChildStrive prioritizes accessibility and cultural sensitivity with an inclusive approach that supports immigrant and culturally diverse communities. Recognizing diverse parenting practices and adapting strategies accordingly ensures support aligns with families’ values. “We meet families where they are – in their homes or spaces they feel comfortable,” Pulliam says.
Developmental screenings help identify areas of need, but the program values parental insights. “At times, screening tools can be imperfect; we always ask parents what they’re noticing,” Pulliam says. Families can also self-refer, eliminating barriers to early intervention. Bainbridge stresses the importance of acting early, saying, “advocacy skills are critical for parents as they navigate future challenges.”
As children approach three years old, family resources coordinators guide families through the transition to options like school district services or preschool. “We don’t just drop them at age three,” Bainbridge notes. “The transition process is built into our program.”
Addressing stress and building resilience
ChildStrive acknowledges the stress many families face, from housing shortages to navigating complex systems. By teaching coping skills and stress management, the program helps parents build resilience, while activities like play and group interactions strengthen parent-child bonds. “During the pivotal years of brain development, we encourage parents to interact with their children through play and conversation so as to build strong relationships and learning opportunities,” Pulliam says.
ChildStrive’s inclusive work culture empowers staff and enhances the quality of care for families. “Employees feel like they belong and can bring their whole selves to work,” Pulliam says.
For families navigating challenges, ChildStrive offers hope, guidance, and brighter futures through trust and collaboration. Find more information at childstrive.org. Families can contact ChildStrive at 425-245-8377 or email info@childstrive.org for program inquiries and referrals.
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