Our vision

We want every new parent to have the community support needed to raise healthy, strong families during a challenging transition in their lives.

How it works

Small groups of new parents meet weekly, in person, for 10-12 weeks after their babies arrive. Each weekly meeting includes a sharing time, developmental activity (e.g., songs and games for babies), and discussion of a relevant parenting topic such as sleeping, anxiety disorders, and balancing work and family.   EPSA facilitators are nonjudgmental supporters and know that there is not one right way to be a good parent. 

Meetings take place in participants’ homes and at local partner sites.

EPSA is modeled on the Seattle-based Program for Early Parent Support (PEPS), a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization which has helped parents connect and grow as they begin their journeys into parenthood since 1982. PEPS parent support programs educate, inform and create community.

What participants say

“I’m grateful for the friendships I’ve made and for the support I’ve found in my community. This was a priceless experience.”

 

“I feel so much better knowing other parents near me.”

 

“Postpartum can be such an isolating experience and EPSA is an incredible support with that. It’s a way to make friends and to socialize.”

 

“It’s an excellent way to meet people you otherwise wouldn’t and to form a new community. It was a highlight in my week and I would attend forever if I could!”

 

“I would recommend the group because it has been such a great way to make connections and discuss life as a new parent without judgement and with others who are going through the

same things you are.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why join?

Research shows that being a part of a parenting group like those created through EPSA:
  • increases parenting skills, knowledge, and confidence
  • provides emotional nourishment, guidance, access to resources, and role modeling
  • enhances the parenting couple’s relationship and decreases parent stress, anxiety and isolation
  • normalizes the early parenting experience
  • improves a child’s readiness to learn upon entering school

EPSA Values

  • Authenticity: At the heart of EPSA is honesty sharing about the ups and downs of early parenthood.
  • Equity: We welcome all individuals, regardless of culture, gender, marital status, race, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, disabilities, and religion.
  • Collaboration: Working with community partners, volunteers, and program participants to create a network of strong, informed parents. Recognizing strengths within the community, knowing it takes more than just one or two people to raise a child.

Early Parent Support – Anchorage thanks Alaska Family Services, a 501 (c)(3) for hosting our program 
and allowing us the opportunity to bring these parent support cohorts to Southcentral Alaska.