Curriculum

The Straight Arrow Parenting Curriculum was developed by Barbara E. Harvey, while pursuing her Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education, at Oral Roberts University. Practical application was developed with Geri McElroy and input from parents of the Child Development Association in Roswell, GA.

Common factors for each course are:

• Duration of approximately eight (8) weeks.
• Meeting times of approximately ninety (90) minutes.
• Emphasis on both individual and group dynamics.
• Specially developed booklets created by Parents, Teachers, Advocates, Inc. (PT&A)
• Supplemental videos to enhance learning
• Plan of action to utilize at home
• Objective pre-tests
• Subjective post-tests
• Pass rate of 75%

The foundation of the curriculum is based on education; not social services. Emphasis is placed on the following six (6) theoretical perspectives:

·        Cognitive Development Theory ~ Jean Piaget

Children’s knowledge is based what they know. Predictable patterns are the foundation for thinking and reasoning. Adults stimulate learning by providing new experiences.

·        Social Learning Theory ~ Lev Vygotsky

Children develop a deeper level of learning. Social interaction with adults and peers is essential. Language and thought are interrelated. Adults facilitate learning by being active listeners.

·        Hierarchy of Needs ~ Abraham Maslow

Need is the motivating factor for humans. Physiological and safety needs must be met first. A person’s self-esteem is based on a sense of belonging.

·        Theory of Attachment ~ Mary Ainsworth and John Bowlby

Attachment and bonding are necessary for children to develop a conscience. Children are free to attach when their needs are met by attentive adults. 

·        Psychosocial Development Theory ~ Erik Erikson

There are six stages of development from birth to twenty-one years, with an innate issue to address before moving onto the next one.  Parents’ recognition of these stages helps children to be successful. Parents must also acknowledge their own conflict in order to effectively address those of their children.

·        Family Structure Theory ~ Murray Bowen  Self-differentiation is important. Parents must encourage children to develop      themselves as separate entities. Parents must also follow their own identities.    Different gifts and talents that family members