Susquehanna County TAPS program leaves parents smiling
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
By: Stephnie Thornton

Families involved in the school readiness program see major changes in their children.

Families from across Susquehanna County are now better prepared for the start of school thanks to their participation in a special program called TAPS or Transition Activities for Parents and Students. The three week program was coordinated through Susquehanna County CARES, the county's LEARN Team.

Eight families from three school districts participated at Blue Ridge Elementary School. Each night, children were involved in classroom activities with early learning teachers, while their parents met with a special facilitator. The parent sessions touched on everything from creating activities using the "Leaning is Everywhere" calendar to being your child's champion. Parents and children also did projects together.

Gerri Grisafi, mother of a 5 year old set to start school in the fall, says this program has made a huge difference not only to her son Nicohli but for her as well. "This has been eye opening. TAPS has opened my son up and brightened his learning experience." She says all families should go through such a program.

Bobbie Cosgrove agrees. Her daughter Jade is very shy, but during the three weeks she has become more talkative. "She loved it! She is more open and that will help with the start of school."

TAPS was only possible because of the support of all six school districts and dedicated CARES volunteers. For more information, contact Susquehanna County CARES at stcares@epix.net