Parent and Caregiver Support

Support groups, guides, and other information for parents and caregivers who want additional support for themselves and their children.

Parental Stress Line: 1-800-632-8188

Parents and caregivers who are experiencing any kinds of problems related to their children can call the Parental Stress Line for support.  The Parental Stress Line is staffed by volunteer counselors who are sympathetic and nonjudgmental.  The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

The Parental Stress Line is a project of Parents Helping Parents of Massachusetts.

Additional Resources

One Tough Job

One Tough Job connects parents in Massachusetts with parenting information and resources.  Parents can search for resources by their child's age (0-6 years old) or by topic.  Parents can also enter their zip code to find parenting support organizations and programs nearby.

One Tough Job is a project of the Children's Trust.

Additional Resources

Healthy Family Massachusetts

Healthy Family Massachusetts provides support and resources for young, first-time parents.  Activities available include workshops on parenting skills, playgroups, and other social events.  Parents can sign up for the program during pregnancy, and the program serves families with children up to 3 years old. 

Healthy Family Centers are a project of the Children's Trust.  Use the website to find a program near you.

Additional Resources

Parenting Support Groups

Parenting Education and Support Programs help parents with young children to develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to be the best parents they can be. These groups are led by trained professionals and provide opportunities for parents to learn new skills, connect with other parents, and get information about community resources.  Check the website to find a parenting group near you.

Parenting Education and Support Programs are a project of the Children's Trust.

Additional Resources

Family Resource Centers

Family Resource Centers (FRCs) are a statewide network of community-based providers that offer many types of programs for families.  These services include parenting classes, support groups, early childhood services, and information and referral resources.  FRCs serve families whose children range in age from birth to 18 years of age.  Use the link below to find an FRC near you.

Additional Resources

Handbook for Parents, Legal Guardians, and Custodians in Child Requiring Assistance (CRA) Cases

If you are a parent or caregiver for a child involved in a Child Requiring Assistance (CRA) case, this guide will explain what to expect in court, the different people who may be involved in your child's case, and your rights as a parent, guardian, or legal custodian.

Additional Resources

Federation for Children with Special Needs (FCSN)

FCSN provides information, support , and assistance to parents of children with disabilities and/or special health needs.  Programs include training and workshops related to special education, and help accessing health care and benefits for children with special health needs. 

Additional Resources

Understanding Childhood Trauma

For information on childhood trauma and the impact it may have on your family, please review the brochure below. The brochure includes examples of behaviors in children after traumatic events, parent/caregiver support resources, and what to do if a child has experienced trauma. 

Additional Resources

For Mandated Reporters

This Resource Guide has been compiled to support mandated reporters who are seeking to connect children and families to services.

Additional Resources

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