Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors(AP) is the nation’s first evidence-based parent leadership training  program for Latino parents with children 0-5 years of age. This curriculum, delivered in ten interactive sessions, is based on popular education and draws on the real life experiences and cultural strengths of its participants.

AP uses “dichos” (culturally-based sayings) to frame the conversation  for each session. Every week, Latino parents of 0 - 5 year olds meet in a support group setting to develop their ability to be their child’s first teacher.  During each session, parents are engaged in different topics including how to be your child’s first teacher, goal setting, communication, ages and stages of development, promoting literacy, choosing preschool and child care services, health and nutrition, socio-emotional wellness, Earned Income Tax Credit, and advocating for children, families and communities. The primary objective of Abriendo Puertas is to increase the number of Latino children in the U.S. that enter school ready to learn and able to succeed in life. 

Above: Abriendo Puertas' yarn activity that demonstrates

brain development of children 0-5

This objective is reached by increasing parents':

· Confidence about parenting skills

· Knowledge about available health services

· Social support and social connections in the community

· Desire for community involvement

· Sense of empowerment to get involved in the community and with their child's education

Results from quantitative and qualitative analyses-collected through pre and post surveys, questionnaires, field notes and focus groups at the beginning and end of the program- show Abriendo Puertas participants display significant increases in their:
· Confidence as parents

· Knowledge and comfort with available services

· Social support, Connection to the community, and Civic engagement