The EPIC Parenting Education and Support Program is a comprehensive 12-week learning and support experience designed to strengthen families by empowering parents with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to raise healthy, capable, and resilient children. Through weekly interactive sessions, parents build community, deepen relationships with their children, and gain lifelong tools that grow with their families.

The program blends education, skill-building, guided reflection, and peer support, creating a safe and encouraging environment where parents can learn, practice new techniques, and share experiences with others facing similar parenting challenges.

Program Structure

• Format: Virtual or in-person interactive group sessions (please see events to see which format is being offered)
• Duration: 12 consecutive weeks
• Cost: $300 (scholarships for Bergen County parents/can be paid for by DCPP)
• Outcome Focus: Confidence, communication, connection, healthy relationships, and long-term family success

Curriculum Overview
Each weekly session focuses on a core aspect of effective and loving parenting, progressively building skills and insights.

1. Characteristics of an Effective, Loving Parent
   Parents explore the responsibilities of parenting, recognize strengths, and identify areas for growth.
2. Building Healthy Self-Esteem in Children and Ourselves
   Participants learn the “I Am Lovable And Capable” (IALAC) model and discover how everyday interactions shape children's self-image and confidence.
3. Structure, Limits, and Boundaries
   Parents learn how to create reasonable, enforceable, and consistent rules through discussion and role-play.
4. Shaking, Hitting, Spanking: What to Do Instead
   This session introduces positive, developmentally appropriate alternatives to punitive discipline, helping parents respond instead of react.
5. Listening and Responding to Children
   Parents practice communication skills such as mirroring, validating, and empathizing to create deeper, more respectful connections.
6. Knowing Ourselves as Parents
   Through reflection and storytelling, parents explore their own histories, strengths, and goals to better understand their parenting style.
7. Sexuality Education Begins at Home
   Parents learn how everyday interactions teach children about caring, relationships, boundaries, and understanding their bodies.
8. Substance Misuse Prevention
   Participants discuss personal experiences and learn how to guide children toward healthy decision-making and identify early signs of substance misuse.
9. Promoting a Peaceful Home Environment
   Parents practice using “I-messages” and role-play constructive ways to address conflict and reduce verbal aggression.
10. Coping with Daily Problems: Stress Management
    Parents identify stress triggers, understand their body's reactions, and learn practical stress-reduction techniques.
11. Helping Children Resolve Conflicts
    Parents gain tools for coaching children through a “Peace Process” that teaches problem-solving, respect, and emotional regulation.
12. Building Bridges to the Future
    Participants reflect on their progress, celebrate new skills, and establish ongoing plans to maintain strong, loving relationships with their children.

Age Groups	Adults
Community Services	Family & Support Services Adoption / Foster Care Family Support Parenting & Caregiving
Areas Served	State-Wide

Last Updated: 03/10/26