Guiding Principles of Parent Link

The following principles provide a foundation for Alberta's Parent Link Centres. These principles reflect generally accepted principles of family support, including those endorsed by the Canadian Association of Family Resource Programs (FRP Canada) and Family Support America.

Children come first in all Parent Link program services and activities. The best interests of each child drive all program-related decisions.

Parents are the primary caregivers of their children. Programs offered through Parent Link centres recognize that supporting parents is key to fostering optimal child development.

Parenting is a lifelong learning experience. All families have resources and strengths that they bring to this experience.

Parents and communities are active partners in the planning, design and delivery of Parent Link programs and services. Parents are involved as volunteers, advisors, facilitators, planners and evaluators as well as recipients of Parent Link services.

Parent Link centres are open to all parents regardless of where they live or what their social, cultural or economic background may be. They offer affordable services and support at times that are convenient for parents.

Parent Link centres recognize that parents need different types of support at different stages in their children's lives.

Parent Link centres value diversity and promote inclusion. They recognize and respect the fact that families differ in their structure and composition. They recognize that different families have different needs, and that special services may be required for children with special needs.

Parent Link centres are community-based partnerships. They build networks and partnerships with governments and community agencies in order to provide a comprehensive range of services that meet the needs of children and families.

Parent Link centres are flexible. They respond to the changing needs and circumstances of parents and communities, while still complying with provincial standards and guidelines. As a result, different programs and services may be offered in different communities or to different parents.

Parent Link centres recognize that communities play an important role in supporting parents and providing children with the positive, supportive environment they need to fulfill their potential. They foster a sense of belonging and help families connect with their communities.

Parent Link centres deliver high-quality programs that reflect current, evidence-based research findings and best practices.

Parent Link centres use a proactive, preventive approach. Rather than focusing on problem-specific crisis intervention, they help parents build skills and abilities that empower them to solve problems, achieve goals and take control of their lives.

Parent Link centres are accountable. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation ensure public accountability and foster continuous improvement.