Parent to Parent Support Program of Thurston County Programs
Parent to Parent provides support groups, both on line and in person for parents of children with Autism, Down Syndrome and general disabilities in Thurston and Mason Counties as well as support to mothers of children with disabilities through the Mom to Mom support group and to siblings of children with special needs through Sibshops.
Parent to Parent is the local lead agency in Thurston County for Early Intervention (Birth to Three) with the Family Resources Coordination Program serving 200 families at any given time. This is a critical time for families as they are learning of possible delays and disabilities for their children and support is imperative.
Parent to Parent was founded on the Helping Parent Program which matches parents with other parents who have children with same or similar disabilities. This one on one mentoring is invaluable to guide families through the challenges they will face.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
Sibshops is a wonderful support system for the siblings of children with disabilities. The typically developing sibling often feels left out, misunderstood, ignored or embarrassed. This program provides a place for youth to gather in a facilitated environment with their peers. Sibshops has been attempted several times over the past 20 years at Parent to Parent and for some reason, this past year it took off! We are trying to raise funds to increase the capacity for a second group and add more activities. Currently the group meets monthly. We would like to add a quarterly "field trip" as well as add a second group for ages 13-18. We currently serve ages 7-12.