Parenting Healthy Preteens (PHP)
Supporting Families Through the Preteen Years
Parenting Healthy Preteens (PHP) is a parenting program developed at the Oregon Social Learning Center to help caregivers support children during the critical transition from childhood to adolescence. The program equips parents and caregivers with evidence-based practical tools to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and reduce risk as children move into the preteen years.
Why the Preteen Years Matter
The preteen years bring rapid changes in children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development. During this time, young people seek more independence and face increased peer influence and academic pressures. Research shows that positive, consistent parenting during this stage is a powerful protective factor that helps prevent later behavioral, substance-use, and mental health challenges.
How Parenting Healthy Preteens Works
Parenting Healthy Preteens is a structured, skills-based program focused specifically on the developmental needs of preteens.
Core Areas of Focus
Strengthening positive parent–child relationships
Setting clear expectations and consistent boundaries
Increasing appropriate parental monitoring and supervision
Reducing family conflict and stress
Preventing risk behaviors before adolescence
Who the Program Serves
Parenting Healthy Preteens supports parents, caregivers, and families of preteens (approximately ages 9–12), as well as schools and communities seeking prevention‑focused, family‑centered approaches to early adolescence.
Program Format
Delivered virtually as a short-term, group-based parent program
Includes skill-building instruction, discussion, and practice
Designed for implementation through schools and community organizations
Research-Based and Prevention-Focused
Developed at the Oregon Social Learning Center, Parenting Healthy Preteens draws on decades of prevention science and research on effective parenting practices. The program emphasizes early intervention and prevention to promote healthier long-term outcomes for children and families.
Funding
The PHP program was developed with support from multiple research grants, including funding from Lane County Public Health, the Lane County Health Council, and the Oregon Department of Human Services.
Learn More or Partner with Us
Parents, schools, and community organizations interested in supporting families during the preteen years are invited to learn more about or partner in delivering Parenting Healthy Preteens.