Kim Lovewell

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Parents as Teachers (PAT) is a voluntary parent education program offered in Missouri by each local school district, serving families who are expecting a child or have children under the age of kindergarten entry. PAT helps to establish positive partnerships between home, school and the community and plays a vital role in supporting families and children from the very beginning toward school readiness.

 A trained parent educator provides home visits with families to promote early learning, knowledge and understanding of important developmental milestones. Periodic screenings increase parents’ understanding of their children’s developmental progress, as well as inform them of any possible delays. Early intervention for identified concerns helps improve school readiness for young children.

This evidence-based early childhood program is designed to offer regularly scheduled family personal visits, annual developmental screenings, monthly group connections and access to a network of resources. These components are integral in supporting and preparing children, families, schools and communities toward school readiness. The PAT program provides opportunities to assist families with a smooth transition into preschool and kindergarten.