The Strengthening Families Program is a seven week series designed to reduce adolescent substance abuse and other problematic behaviors in youth ages 10 – 14 years old. It has been scientifically tested and results have shown that children who have completed the program are less likely to become involved in risky behaviors like drug and alcohol abuse.

Parents and children begin each Strengthening Families session with a shared meal followed by breakout sessions for adults and youth. During the last hour, the families reunite to increase bonding, positive communication skills and learn to solve problems together.

Three sessions will be held in Carbondale and Moosic. The Carbondale sessions will be run from 5:30 – 8 p.m. on Sundays starting on Feb. 12 or on Wednesdays beginning on Feb. 15 at the Carbondale Area Elementary School. The Moosic session will be held from 5:30–  8 p.m. on Thursdays starting Feb. 2 at the Riverside East Elementary School.

Youth will benefit from attending the sessions by learning to: prepare for their teen years; communicate with their parents; deal with stress and peer pressure; and avoid alcohol and drug problems.  Parents and caregivers can enhance their parenting skills by: learning to set limits and show love; making house rules; encouraging good behavior; protecting their children from substance abuse; and learning to handle stress.

The free program includes dinner for the family, prizes for attendance, and free child care for younger family members.

For more information or to register for this fun, family oriented program, call Karen Thomas at Penn State Extension in Lackawanna County at 570-963-6842.