The Teaching-Family Model is an evidence-based program used throughout the country to help youth and their families deal with physically, emotionally, and sexually abused children; delinquent youths, emotionally disturbed, autistic and medically fragile children. The Teaching-Family Model teaches the skills they need to lead a productive and satisfying life. It is one of the only childcare models that is well defined and therefore can be effectively replicated.

The Teaching Family Association was founded in 1975 and has grown out of the demand to replicate this effective, humane model of treatment. By 1978 the Teaching-Family Association had established standards for ethics and practice at both the Teaching Parent (and other direct care workers and practitioners) level and the organizational level.

The Teaching-Family Model is designed to train and support the direct care workers knowing that if the children are going to be successful, it must begin at home. Eligible participants for implementing the Teaching-Family Model include, but are not limited to, Group Homes, Treatment Foster Care, and Home-Based Treatment.

Listen to the Philosophies and Goals that drive the Teaching-Family Model by clicking on an appropriate area below.

Teaching-Family Model Philosophies

Teaching-Family Model Goals

Teaching-Family Model Training Methods

  • Lecture/Discussion
  • Behavior Rehearsals
  • Modeling
  • Interactive Learning Experiences
  • Practical Exercises

Teaching-Family Model Interactive Timeline

This is a quick overview of the Teaching-Family Model. Full implementation of the model usually takes approximately three to five years. Once implemented the model provides a balanced practitioner-based program that is also strengths-based and outcomes-oriented. This model has been proven effective in helping youth learn valuable skills and remediate their problems identified at the time of program admission.

Rollover each program component for more information.