Governor Proclaims Parenting Education Awareness Month 2021

WHEREAS, many parents and caregivers begin the difficult lifetime job of raising a child feeling unprepared for the challenges ahead; and

WHEREAS, resources that educate parents and caregivers are vital to positive childhood development and can help reduce the risk of abuse and neglect and strengthen family relationships; and

WHEREAS, parenting education can include a variety of different models, including home visitation, that work to help parents and caregivers meet the unique needs of their children; and

WHEREAS, well-trained service providers implement and encourage home visitation and parenting education through a public health approach so that all families have the opportunity to access information in ways that respect their unique beliefs, traditions, and customs; and

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the burden on parents and families, with worries about health, job loss, economic security, and social isolation contributing to stress and anxiety in the home; and

WHEREAS, virtual home visitation resources and parenting support programs are available for free online for anyone to use; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina urges individuals and organizations across our state to utilize parenting education resources as needed to support the health and well-being of our children;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim February, 2021, as “PARENTING EDUCATION AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.