GEORGE – Families in Lyon County and the surrounding area may still take part of the Strengthening Families program from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. April 7 and April 14 at the George-Little Rock Elementary School.

The program, sponsored by Iowa State University Extension started February 25, but families may still attend without having been to the earlier two events.

This is the third year ISU Extension has offered this free program in George-Little Rock, but the program is not exclusive to that school district.

Families from any school district are welcome to attend, and child care for younger children is provided.

Beyenhof said parents and youth each cover specific topics and then gather to cover topics as a family.

Some of the topics covered by youth include goal-setting, understanding stress, handling peer pressure and modeling respect.

Parent topics range from setting reasonable limits and following through with consequences to protecting and enabling their children to live a healthy lifestyle.

“We know families are extremely busy,” said Laura Beyenhof, Lyon County K-12 program assistant, “so that is why we try to make participating in this program as conducive as possible to families by providing a free meal beforehand and activities for younger siblings.”

The Strengthening Families Program nights begin with an optional, free family supper. Programming begins for the youth and adults at 6 p.m. Later, the two groups merge for the family session.

The program in Lyon County is made possible through the support of the Lyon County Extension Council, Lyon County Riverboat Foundation and the George-Little Rock School District.