Raising children comes with plenty of questions, and having the right support can make a difference. Saint Xavier University is bringing parents, caregivers and community professionals together this month for a workshop focused on helping families navigate the early years of childhood.
The university will host “Growing Together at SXU: Empowering Families: A Community Workshop for Parents and Caregivers” from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Oct. 24 in the Butler Reception Room.
The workshop will give parents and caregivers an opportunity to learn from experts, exchange ideas and discover resources to support their children’s growth and development. Topics will include early childhood learning, school readiness, and community and health care resources.
The day will wrap up with a vendor and resource fair where families can connect with organizations offering services and products for young children.
Rania Sadeq, assistant professor of education and director of the community workshop, said raising children is a shared responsibility that extends beyond the home.
“Raising healthy, happy children starts in infancy and requires collaboration among parents, grandparents, educators, healthcare professionals and community partners,” Sadeq said. “Growing Together at SXU is designed to bring these dedicated individuals together to share strategies, resources and support for families. When we invest in children, we invest in the future.”
Organizers also have made arrangements to help parents attend without worrying about child care. Children ages 3 to 8 may accompany their parents at no additional cost, with Saint Xavier education students providing supervision during the workshop.
The experience will give the university’s education students an opportunity to put their classroom learning into practice while caring for young children. Snacks and lunch will be provided, and parents may bring food for children with allergies or special dietary needs.
The workshop costs $25 per participant, including lunch. Parents from surrounding neighborhoods and communities, along with members of the university community, are encouraged to attend.
Sadeq hopes the gathering will help families build relationships with people and organizations they can turn to long after the workshop ends.
“It takes a village to raise a child, and this workshop is an opportunity to begin building and strengthening that village within our community,” she said. “Together, we can empower families, strengthen communities, and help every child thrive.”