The second “Dad’s Day in the Park,” an event developed and hosted by the New Parent Support Program, was held Oct. 4 at the Barnett Field Playground. With a medieval theme, there were many little knights, dragons and princesses running around.

More than 50 dads, 10 moms, 82 children and six grandparents attended, as did Trish Burkes and Pam Pospisil, two NPSP home visitors, who also dressed up as princesses.

The NPSP works with expectant parents, as well as with parents who have children ages 5 and under. They often work with mothers but have been trying hard to promote activities for fathers of young children as well. Fathers are very important to their children and NPSP’s hope was to provide a venue for fathers to play with their children and talk with each other, all while taking part in hands-on activities such as Slay the Dragon, Tunnel Crawl, Rescue the Princess, Pin the Tail on the Dragon and a craft center.

The goal of the NPSP is to provide parenting education and support to parents with young children. The staff includes home visitors who are nurses and social workers with extensive experience in issues all parents of young children face. The program staff provides lessons on child development, safety, discipline, routines, health and nutrition. In addition there are home visits, office visits as well as a variety of groups and classes specially designed for parents with young children. Services are free of charge for military families. 

To reach the NPSP, call 703- 784-4248 or search Quantico New Parent Support on Facebook for information about upcoming groups/classes and other information related to families with young children. Information can also be found on the MCCS Quantico site, under Marine and Family Programs, New Parent Support Program.