Akron Housing Authority’s Parents as Teachers Program Expands Family Learning Opportunities with Challenge Grant Support

Akron Housing Authority’s Parents as Teachers program has been awarded a $10,000 Challenge Grant from Parents as Teachers National Center to bring dynamic PBS KIDS Family Engagement Events to local families, helping spark curiosity, strengthen school readiness, and build a foundation for lifelong learning.

Akron Housing Authority’s Parents as Teachers program will host six interactive, hands-on events across housing developments, engaging approximately 60 families and up to 180 children. These fun, 90-minute learning experiences create meaningful opportunities for parents and children to explore, discover, and learn together—empowering families with practical tools they can continue using at home, regardless of financial barriers.

Centered around computational thinking concepts from the PBS KIDS series Work It Out Wombats!, children will strengthen early math and problem-solving skills through playful pattern recognition and creative thinking. Families will enjoy engaging video clips, a lively read-aloud of Simon Sock, hands-on pattern-building activities, and interactive digital games such as Peg + Cat. Each child will also receive a free book through the Parents as Teachers Book Rich Environment partnership, along with take-home resources designed to keep learning going long after the event ends.

A dedicated Tech Cart equipped with tablets will introduce families to trusted PBS KIDS educational apps, promoting positive and purposeful screen time while helping parents confidently support their child’s learning journey with guidance from their Parents as Teachers parent educator.

Success will be measured not only by participation but also by the excitement families bring home—how they engage in learning together and apply new strategies in everyday moments. Through support from Parents as Teachers National Center, Akron Housing Authority’s Parents as Teachers program is expanding access to enriching educational experiences that strengthen family engagement, support kindergarten readiness, and open doors to brighter futures for children and families.

Parents as Teachers National Center applauds your dedication to empowering families and creating lasting impact in your community.