The focus of this PA CARES grant is on low-income, high-risk neighborhoods in seven southwestern Pennsylvania counties.  There are two major components to this professional development initiative. The first component targets early childhood professionals. Using FCI’s  Challenging Behaviors workshops, child care providers will gain insight and strategies to help children manage their angry feelings and develop self-control.  

The second component targets a different audience who come in contact with children – police officers.  Through our award-winning training materials,  One On One Connecting Cops and Kids, police officers will better understand how their work impacts children of all ages.  By giving officers tools to communicate and build relationships with children,  One on One can improve their safety and help them achieve law enforcement goals.     

The work we’re doing for this grant builds on Fred Rogers’ belief that one of the most important tasks for young children is to find healthy outlets for their angry feelings.  He continually reminded us that children aren’t born with self-control -- they develop it through the knowledgeable support of caring adults.   We are excited to have the support of the Department of Justice to be able to strengthen some of the key adults who connect with young children in at-risk communities and who contribute to their growing in positive directions.