Introducing the Healthy Families Parent Circle: Building Stronger Families, Together

At YWCA Northwestern Illinois, we know that parenting is one of the most important, and sometimes most challenging, jobs there is. Every family experiences moments of uncertainty, and every parent deserves a place where they can ask questions, learn new skills, and feel supported without judgment.

That’s why we’re excited to introduce the Healthy Families Parent Circle, also known as the Chicago Parent Program.

Supporting Families Through Every Stage

The Healthy Families Parent Circle is a 12-week parenting education and support group for parents and caregivers of young children. Each week, participants explore practical parenting strategies, discuss real-life challenges, and connect with other parents who understand the joys and struggles of raising children.

Rather than focusing on perfection, the program encourages progress. Parents leave each session with tools they can immediately apply at home to strengthen communication, encourage positive behavior, and build lasting, healthy relationships with their children.

One of the most valuable parts of the Parent Circle is the sense of community it creates. Parents quickly discover they are not alone. They find encouragement, share experiences, celebrate successes, and support one another through the everyday challenges of parenting.

Why the Healthy Families Parent Circle?

The Healthy Families Parent Circle is based on the nationally recognized Chicago Parent Program curriculum, developed specifically for parents of young children.

The program provides families with techniques that help parents:

  • Build positive parent-child relationships
  • Encourage healthy child development
  • Respond to challenging behaviors with confidence
  • Reduce parenting stress
  • Strengthen communication within the family

By combining evidence-based parenting education with peer support, the Healthy Families Parent Circle helps parents feel empowered as they navigate the journey of raising young children.

Join Us This Summer

We’re excited to offer two opportunities for families to participate in the Healthy Families Parent Circle.

Virtual English Parent Circle

πŸ“… Mondays beginning July 20
πŸ•• 6:00–8:00 PM
πŸ’» Virtual via Zoom

Participants will receive:

  • A $25 Visa gift card for each session attended
  • A $25 childcare support stipend for each session
  • Practical parenting tools and resources
  • Connection with other parents from the comfort of home

In-Person Spanish Parent Circle

πŸ“… Tuesdays beginning July 21
πŸ•š 11:00 AM–1:00 PM
πŸ“ YWCA Northwestern Illinois

Participants will receive:

  • A $25 Visa gift card for each session attended
  • A $25 childcare support stipend
  • Lunch provided each week
  • Transportation assistance when needed, including Uber rides, gas cards, or bus passes
  • A welcoming space to learn and connect in Spanish

You’re Not Alone

There is no perfect parent, but every parent deserves support.

Whether you’re navigating toddler tantrums, looking for new parenting strategies, or simply hoping to connect with other parents who understand your experiences, the Healthy Families Parent Circle offers a welcoming space to learn, grow, and build lasting connections.

If you or someone you know could benefit from encouragement, practical parenting tools, and a supportive community, we invite you to join us this summer.

Together, we’re building stronger families β€” one conversation, one connection, and one week at a time.

Interested in joining or referring a family?
Registration is now open for both our English and Spanish Healthy Families Parent Circle groups. To learn more or reserve a spot, contact Monica Lozano at [email protected], call or text 779-210-4664. Β Together, we can help parents build confidence, strengthen family relationships, and create brighter futures for their children.