ParentChild+

“Far too often, families living in under-resourced communities experience limited access to quality early learning supports… I’m excited to bring this program to my hometown to partner with organizations, families, and caregivers to offer a path to school and life success for Baltimore’s children.”

“New Song Community Learning Center is proud to partner with ParentChild+ to strengthen early childhood education and family engagement. Data shows that 93% of our Pre-K students enter New Song Academy below the poverty level—6 percentage points higher than the Baltimore City Public Schools Pre-K enrollment average. This means we are serving young learners at a higher level of vulnerability.

However, our data also demonstrates that by the time students complete 8th grade at New Song Academy, they are well-prepared for high school and show significant improvement in state test scores. Our education model proves most effective the longer students remain with us.

Through our partnership with ParentChild+, we can intervene earlier—supporting families with children ages 16 months to 5 years. By equipping both children and their caregivers with the tools they need for Pre-K and Kindergarten readiness, we help close achievement gaps before they start and create a stronger foundation for lifelong success.”

“The ParentChild+ program is vital to New Song Academy and the Sandtown-Winchester community, providing families with early learning resources, school readiness support, and a foundation for lifelong academic success. By fostering strong parent-child interactions through home visits, the program empowers caregivers with the tools to nurture their children’s development, bridging the gap between home and school. Families have shared their initial engagement, whether through receiving their first set of books or learning new ways to encourage their child’s language development. The program has transformed their confidence as their child’s first teacher, creating a ripple effect of learning and growth within their homes.”

“ParentChild+ has made a real impact in the community. I’ve seen families become more hopeful and motivated about their child’s growth, and there’s an empowering feeling when parents realize they have support, resources, and someone in their corner who is consistent. Many parents have gone above and beyond by creating extra learning opportunities for their kids — enrolling them in programs focused on different areas of development, and investing in educational activities similar to the ones we provide. It’s not just about building skills; it’s about building confidence, pride, and stronger relationships. The impact is visible not just in individual families, but across the community as more children thrive and parents feel supported and connected.”

“ParentChild+ has given more than 30 families the opportunity to begin their children’s early education. Through the program, many parents have discovered that even if they did not finish school, they still have the ability and the tools to support their children in becoming the best adults they can be. We have strengthened parent–child relationships, making family time more enjoyable and helping create better ways to communicate. The children we serve have grown in confidence, learning to ask for help when they need it while also developing the independence to say, “I can do it on my own.””

“At first, I wasn’t sure how to help my child get ready for school, but ParentChild+ gave us books, activities, and the confidence to learn together. Now, my child gets excited to read, and I feel like I’m setting him up for success.”

“The home visits changed the way I connect with my son. I never realized how much simple things like talking and playing could help him learn. Now, he’s asking more questions, and I see him growing every day.”

“ParentChild+ gave us more than just learning activities; it gave us bonding time. My granddaughter and I have grown so much closer, and I know she’s on the right path for school and beyond. She has a joy for learning and her curiosity has been sparked thanks to our Early Learning Specialist.”

“I used to think learning started in school, but ParentChild+ showed me that it starts at home. Now, my child recognizes letters, loves books, and I feel more involved in his education.”

“My Early Learning Specialist didn’t just bring books and toys; she brought encouragement and support. She helped me see that I am my child’s first and most important teacher.”

“Since starting the program, my son’s vocabulary has exploded! He’s more confident, talks more, and is even teaching his friends what he’s learned.”