Building a Family Resource Room Presented by Margaret Shandorf Federal and State Programs

Empowering Parents Resource rooms serve as a gathering place where parents can interact Resource rooms provide an atmosphere of comfort where parents feel welcome Resource rooms provide resources and materials for parents to use Resource rooms serve as a meeting place for staff development

Resource Rooms should be equipped with comfortable furniture, lighting, shelves, and cabinets Resource Rooms should have adequate space for children to call their own to play games and read books Resource Rooms should have tables and chairs for adults so that everyone can easily sit and feel at ease while listening to information and taking notes The Resource Room

Resource Room Materials Parents should have books and magazines on current topics of interest Parents should have use of a computer and various computer software programs Parents should have resources to find local support agencies Parents should have access to checking out games, books and learning tools for their children Materials should be translated in various languages when possible

Resource Rooms Yield Positive Results Builds a community of learners Parents feel welcome and appreciated Knowledge is shared Parents build relationships Parents have a place they can call home Parents have resources and materials that are easily accessible Parents build positive feelings about the school Parent Universities are formed Parents feel there is an open door policy Parents feel secure and happy working and sharing in this safe environment