MFN is the state's lead agency for Strengthening Families Maryland. This is an initiative to promote family resiliency and the prevention of child abuse through resources for parents, locally developed community initiatives, workforce training, and statewide grant-making. When families are strong, they raise strong children, which create stronger communities. 

There are Strengthening Families initiatives in most states in the country and in other countries throughout the world. Researched and developed by the Center for the Study of Social Policy over the last two decades. This is a research informed approach built on the five protective factors necessary to ensure the children grow up safe, healthy and happy. These factors are:

  • Parental Resilience
  • Social Connections
  • Concrete Support in Times of Need
  • Knowledge of Parenting and Child Development
  • Social and Emotional Competence of Children

Parent Cafés

One of the ways MFN helps parents and other caregivers learn about the protective factors is through Parent Cafés. These are two-hour, structured get-togethers that engage parents and other adults in meaningful conversations about what matters most to families with young children and how to build protective factors at home and in early childhood settings. At Parent Cafés, those who care for young children share information and ideas that can help them to take care of themselves, develop strong relationships with children, and strengthen families. MFN provides Parent Café Facilitator training for representatives from organizations interested in offering Parent Cafés. For more information about Parent Cafés and Parent Café Facilitator training, contact our Training Department.

Upcoming Cafes

DateTimeLocationHostRegister Here