Strengthening Young Families
How accessible are the books to readers who are busy, stressed, or have education gaps?

All our books are written at an 8th grade level or lower, using clear, simple vocabulary, a photo on each page, and a positive, encouraging tone.  
The
 10 Great Ways... series (10 buenas maneras in Spanish) is the most accessible, with extra large type and only the most essential information.

How do I know which book or books is best for our agency's clients?

The chart below may be helpful;  just look in the left column (in yellow) for the area you want covered, then choose reading level from the top bars (in pink).   
To help you judge suitability, you can see the entire contents of each book, simply by clicking on the name of the book below.  (You will need Adobe Reader on
your computer, but can download it free by clicking
here.)



     











How can a nationally distributed book help families find local resources?

Most resources that clients need (such as TANF, Early Head Start, Healthy Families America, or other programs) have national offices which can place families
in touch with their local office.  The books explain the resources in clear terms, and then include both a phone and website contact that can direct the client to
their local resource.

Can books be customized to meet my agency's needs?

Yes, agencies may request that orders of 1000 or more books be customized to identify your agency, include local contact information, or to reflect agency
priorities.  We typically do not charge for these customized changes;  however, depending on the extent of the changes, the discount structure may be
affected.  To discuss customized books, or for other questions, contact our director at mariannetakas@verizon.net or 240-320-2666, or by clicking
here.

Do the books encourage two-parent involvement and two-parent family formation?  

Yes, in context.  All books include both mothers and fathers, in pictures and text, to emphasize the positive role that each can play.   Additionally, the two
books written specifically for couples (
10 Great Ways to Keep Your Love Strong and Becoming a Family), include a strong focus on two-parent family
formation, conflict resolution, and the benefits of marriage.  The other books more briefly describe the benefits of two-parent involvement, marriage and
paternity establishment as they relate to the subject matter of the book -- i.e. the child well-being benefits in the parenting books, and the financial benefits in
the family finances books.  None of the books, however, encourage marriage in case of domestic violence or other family safety issues.

How can these book assist my agency's work?   

The books are designed to reinforce caseworker or parenting class services -- or to stand alone to provide key information and resources.  
They are highly useful for client outreach, client education, and to make maximum use of caseworker time.

Are there discounts for larger purchases?  

Yes.  There are discounts of up to half-price or less, plus free shipping, depending upon the total number of books ordered. To access discounts, click
here.

Can we order books now and pay after they are received?

Yes.  You can order by mail using our Order Form (click here) and attaching a Purchase Order approved by your agency.   If you prefer to order online using an
agency credit card, please note that books are typically received in under two weeks, before credit card payments become due.
PUBLICATIONS:  Questions Frequently Asked by Agency Directors
 
Easiest reading

Spanish language,
Easiest reading

Most information


Parenting info


10 Great Ways to Love Your Baby


10 buenas maneras de amar a tu bebe


Helping Your Baby to Thrive


Financial security


10 Great Ways to Help Your Family Get Ahead


10 buenas maneras para ayudar a tu familia


From Surviving to Thriving

Strengthening relationship
between the parents


10 Great Ways to Keep Your Love Strong


10 buenas maneras de mantener su amor fuerte

Becoming a Family
(also includes infant care
and financial info)