#1 Parenting Tip | August 2025 Email Update

One of the most powerful reminders is this: never parent out of embarrassment.

It’s easy to fall into that trap—snapping in frustration at a grocery store meltdown, raising our voice because we feel judged in front of others. But parenting driven by shame or embarrassment rarely builds trust. It often closes the door to the very thing families need most: honest, open communication.

At Family Service, we believe that effective parenting begins with connection. That’s why our Family Strengthening programs focus on teaching parents how to communicate with clarity, calm, and confidence—even during the hardest moments.

When parents feel supported—not judged—they can model the same for their kids. When they learn to speak in a way their children can truly hear, relationships grow stronger, and homes become safer, healthier places.

If you believe in empowering families with tools that last a lifetime, we invite you to learn more about our Family Strengthening programs. Our incredible team of caring facilitators do an amazing job helping families learn vital communication skills. With your support, we’re helping parents lead with love, not fear—and that changes everything.

Stay safe,

Mark Butler, MS

Executive Director

The primary goals of the Strengthening Steps program is to build positive behavior and social skills in children. For caregivers, the program enhances parenting skills and promotes effective parenting styles, ultimately with the goal to strengthen family bonds, increase positive communication, and increase collaborative problem-solving skills within the family unit. To learn more about this program click here.

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