Program Contact Information

Phone: 305-243-8425
Email: familiesfirst@miami.edu

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Who we are

Since 2004, the University of Miami’s Families First Program has successfully provided evidence-based, relationship-focused, family strengthening parenting services for parents and caregivers with young children (ages birth to 3) throughout Miami-Dade County. Goals include improving the system of care and building resources for parents, strengthening families, managing child behavior, and promoting optimal child health and development. Program activities are based on best practice concepts from child development theory and research that supports the importance of promoting positive parent-child relationships to facilitate optimal child development.

What we do

Families First offers evidence-based/best practice, relationship-focused parenting groups. Daytime and evening groups are offered on a weekly basis in English and Spanish to Miami-Dade County residents at various locations throughout the county.

Parent Groups

Our Incredible Years toddler program is open to caregivers of toddlers, from seven months to 3 years of age. We meet once a week for a total of 13 sessions. Each week we discuss ways to strengthen the relationship with your child, promote physical and social-emotional development, manage behavior, and increase school readiness skills. Each week participants will receive topic-related items and will watch video clips of real-life situations to help improve child behavior and promote optimal development.

Our Incredible Years parents and babies program is open to all family members and their children ages birth to six months.  Some groups meet at local libraries and others meet primarily online once a week for a total of 10 sessions.  Each week we discuss the attachment relationship and all the ways we can strengthen a child’s development, including the power of play, being responsive to a child’s needs, taking care of ourselves, supporting language development and the importance of routines.  Each week there is an opportunity to share baby’s new milestones, discuss a specific topic, watch video clips of real-life situations to better understand infant cues and take home toys to play with your baby.

Who we serve

We serve all families that reside in Miami-Dade County with children ages birth to 3.

What we cost

Families First is funded by The Children’s Trust and our services are offered to families at no cost. The Trust is a dedicated source of revenue established by voter referendum to improve the lives of children and families in Miami-Dade County.

Where we are located

Families First parenting groups are offered in English and Spanish at various childcare centers and community organizations throughout Miami-Dade County and via secure video connection (Telehealth).

Signing up to participate

To sign up to participate, please call 305-243-8425 or complete this online form to be contacted.