The YMCA of Reading and Berks County recently expanded its baby and baby classes to more accurately reflect the purpose of its free parenting classes, which are designed to educate parents, guardians, and caregivers to prepare children for school readiness. The name of the university program has been changed to “Parenting Pathway.”
The rebranding effort and new name will help Greater Reading individuals build a strong foundation and help them raise confident and resilient children, according to Philip Borup, president and CEO of the Reading & Berks County YMCA. The aim is to improve clarity and awareness of opportunities to develop the skills needed to
Parenting Pathways is a free 8-week course for parents, guardians, and family role models who learn from qualified educators through weekly classroom and at-home sessions. Classes are taught in both English and Spanish. It gives parents the opportunity to build a supportive network with each other. As part of the program, Y staff will provide participants with a complimentary continental breakfast and child care during the session. You’ll also receive home safety supplies, a gift card raffle, and a chance to win $150 toward your rent or mortgage payment.
“Our classes are free and available to parents, caregivers, aunts, uncles, grandparents… and basically anyone in a caregiving role,” said the Reading & Berks County YMCA of Social Services and Child Care. said Gina Pina Garcia, Executive Director of Pathways. “We help adult families learn simple but critically important skills that help build social and emotional connections and healthy attachments. Parents and caregivers can Learn about creating a nurturing environment that allows children to learn, grow, and thrive in school and throughout their lives.”
To help Greater Reading parents succeed, Pina-Garcia has been instrumental in the success of Baby University since its founding as a United Way program nearly 20 years ago. Pina Garcia and her team help hundreds of people positively impact families through courses such as age and developmental stages, illness care and safety, stress management, effective discipline techniques, and many other important topics. We have educated the participants.
