Circle Of Parents

Celebrate Successes and Address the Challenges of Parenting

Parent Trust for Washington Children is a member of a national network of agencies that provide the Circle of Parents® program.  This program of mutual help parent education and support groups is where mothers, fathers and other caregivers can share ideas, celebrate successes and address the challenges of parenting in a non-judgmental setting. 

Groups are parent-led with the assistance of a trained facilitator, and offered free of charge around the state of Washington.  Many groups provide a Children’s Group, too.

In the Circle of Parents® Program we believe:

  • People can learn from the life experience of others
  • People can learn to accept support as well as give support
  • Lasting change is possible

To find a group in Washington State:

Search our database >>

Call the Family Help Line 1-800-932-HOPE (4673)

The Circle of Parents® Model:

The Parent Trust Circle of Parents® group is an ongoing, informal, parent-to-parent support group. The format is based on the Circle of Parents® national organization model and includes the following components:

  • Shared Leadership. Parents participate in helping the group run effectively.
  • Adult Learning. Selected topics and group discussions meet the needs of each parent, thus enhancing individual learning and problem solving.
  • Ongoing. Group meetings are held weekly or bi-weekly. You can start at any time.
  • Confidential. What is shared in the group stays in the group.
  • Free. There is not cost to join.
  • Childcare. Most parent groups offer a program for your child(ren) that meets at the same time as the adult group. More info >>
“Parent Trust has helped me with my stress and anger levels. Now my children and I spend better quality time together. We are not so focused on the negative but the positive and we discuss situations without yelling or getting out of control.”
“I started with Parent Trust at a long-term treatment center.  After I graduated, I joined the state online group.  Parent Trust has helped me through the pandemic, my CPS case, parenting in recovery and so much more. “

Bringing a Parent and Children’s Group to Your Community

Successful groups begin with a partner such as a social service agency, public or private schools, churches, health care facilities, etc. Parent Trust for Washington Children offers the following services to these agencies, free of charge:

  • Program Orientation
  • Parent Program Facilitation training
  • Parent leadership training
  • Circle of Parents Children’s Program Facilitation training
  • Training materials
  • Parent Handouts
  • Ongoing Technical Assistance
  • Outcome Evaluations

For more information on starting a Circle of Parents® Group

Sarah Mace
State Parent Program Manager
206-233-0156, ext. 222
smace@parenttrust.org