Parents As Teachers

The Parents as Teachers program at Mental Health America of Northwest Indiana offers no-cost, home-based support to help parents build strong, nurturing environments for their children. Through personalized guidance and evidence-based strategies, we empower parents with the skills needed to promote healthy development and school readiness.

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About the Parents as Teachers Program

The Parents as Teachers program at Mental Health America of Northwest Indiana is dedicated to helping parents nurture their child’s development from the start. Through home-based support and evidence-based strategies, we empower parents with the skills and knowledge needed to create a safe, healthy, and stimulating environment for their children.

Our program is built around four primary goals:

  1. Enhance Parent Knowledge: Providing insights into early childhood development and effective parenting practices.
  2. Early Detection: Identifying developmental delays and health issues to ensure timely intervention.
  3. Prevent Child Abuse: Equipping parents with strategies to build positive and supportive relationships.
  4. Promote School Readiness: Preparing children for a successful start in education.

With a focus on prevention and proactive support, our trained specialists work alongside parents to build strong family foundations across Lake, Porter, Newton, and Jasper Counties.

Explore More Programs for Families & Mental Wellness

At Mental Health America of Northwest Indiana, we offer a range of free, research-backed programs designed to support parents, children, and individuals at every stage of life. Whether you're looking for home visiting services, early childhood development resources, or mental health support, we’re here to help.

Healthy Families
Healthy Families

Our Healthy Families program offers no-cost, home-based support to help new and expecting parents build a strong foundation for their child’s future

Parents As Teachers
Parents As Teachers

The Parents as Teachers program offers no-cost, home-based support to help parents build strong, nurturing environments for their children

Empowering Teens as Parents
Empowering Teens as Parents

The Empowering Teens as Parents (ETAP) program offers free, personalized support for pregnant and parenting teens, helping them navigate the challenges of parenthood and education.

Ready to Soar
Ready To Soar

The Empowering Teens as Parents (ETAP) program offers free, personalized support for pregnant and parenting teens, helping them navigate the challenges of parenthood and education.

Infant Safe Sleep
Infant Safe Sleep

The Infant Safe Sleep program provides free education and resources to help new and expecting parents practice safe sleep habits for infants up to 12 months old.

Smoke Free Moms
Smoke Free Moms

The Smoke Free Moms program offers no-cost support to help pregnant women quit smoking for a healthier pregnancy and baby.

I'm Thumbody Special
I’m Thumbody Special

The I’m Thumbody Special program at Mental Health America of Northwest Indiana promotes self-esteem and respect for diversity among 3rd grade students.

Mothers & Babies
Mothers & Babies

The Mothers & Babies program is an interactive series designed to promote healthy moods, strengthen parent-child bonds, and equip families with effective stress management techniques.​

Open Door Social Club
Open Door Social Club

The Open Door Social Club offers a safe, welcoming environment for adults living with mental illness who are compliant with treatment.

Wellness Works
Wellness Works

Wellness Works helps businesses promote mental health through emotional support, education, and suicide prevention training, creating healthier workplaces.

Helping Hands
Helping Hands

Helping Hands provides essential support to families enrolled in MHANWI home visiting programs, including supplies, utilities, and housing assistance, fostering stability and well-being.

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Striving for Excellence

Our Testimonials

Sarah M., Hammond, IN

"MHANWI has been a life-changing resource for my family. The home visiting program gave me the confidence and support I needed as a first-time parent. I can’t thank them enough for the guidance and encouragement!"

James R., Merrillville, IN

"Struggling with mental health can feel isolating, but MHANWI helped me find a support system. The Open Door Social Club gave me a safe space to connect with others, and now I feel more hopeful about my future."

Lisa T., Valparaiso, IN

"As an employer, I wanted to prioritize mental wellness in the workplace, but I didn’t know where to start. MHANWI’s Workplace Mental Health program helped me implement meaningful strategies to support my team."

Frequently Asked Questions

Are your programs really free?

Yes! As a nonprofit, we provide most of our programs and services at no cost to families and individuals in Northwest Indiana.

Who is eligible for your services?

Our programs serve parents, children, and adults experiencing mental health challenges or seeking support. Some programs have specific criteria, but we work with all individuals to connect them with the best available resources.

How do I get started with one of your programs?

You can reach out to us by phone, email, or through our website. Our team will assess your needs and guide you toward the right program or resource.

How do you support parents and families?

We offer home visiting programs, parenting education, early childhood development support, and resources to help families build a nurturing, supportive environment for their children.

How can businesses or schools partner with MHANWI?

We offer Workplace Mental Health training, school-based programs, and community partnerships to promote mental wellness in organizations. Contact us to learn how we can collaborate!