Building a Bright Future

early math, phonics, and socialization—skills they would need to start Kindergarten. Also, knowing her kids were in a safe, high-quality program gave her the time and peace of mind to focus on starting her own business. Kirsten is grateful such a program exists and is thrilled the kids are exposed to different cultures, music, food, and more. Because Kirsten is such an excellent NC Pre-K spokesperson, WCSS asked her to advocate at the legislative building for The Leandro Plan, which, if passed, would provide significant funding for Pre-K and other early childhood services across North Carolina.
“The NC Pre-K program, which is public and free of charge, has been a great steppingstone for both [my] sons. [Also, it] opened up doors for me to open my own business. I know from the hours from 8 am - 3:30 pm my children are safe, and they are learning. You actually see your child grow. They will teach you some things you didn’t know so you’ll actually grow together. And it’s a really great program to get them started for the next level of school.” — Kirsten (NC Pre-K parent)

regain custody. It was then that she began the parenting class at Crianza con Cariño. As Cristina progressed with the classes, she showed positive changes in her parenting skills. In December of that year, Cristina regained full custody of her daughter– reuniting the family in time for the holidays.

“In Crianza con Cariño I not only learned about child rearing, child development, empathy, positive discipline, and parenting roles, but I also learned how to provide my children with a safe home where all the members of our family learned to take care of ourselves and others. I am grateful to the Crianza group, the moms, the teacher, and the assistant; all of them have helped me to grow as a mother, to value myself as a woman, and to feel more self-confident. Crianza has changed my life, and most importantly, it helped me get my little daughter back.” — Cristina