Alumni Stories
Christi Jackson, MS ‘86
My experience since obtaining a Masters Degree in Child Development and Family Relations in 1986 includes being a Child Protective Social Worker and teaching in both public and private education. Last summer, I directed a summer childcare program in Colorado. This year, I’ve been a FCS substitute teacher, while investing a considerable amount of time as a Mentor Mom with MOPS International. Using FCS teaching materials to encourage young mothers of preschoolers has given me great satisfaction. My own daughter has two sons and is expecting a third child in the fall. Across the country and internationally, this growing network provides support for young families. It is often the first place a young mother heads to find friends after relocating. Opportunities abound for creating a stronger family and community through this grassroots connection. The website is www.mops.org.
A few years ago, my son asked me for assistance with his children using home management techniques we employed while he was growing up. He remembered our whole family sharing all kinds of jobs. We rewarded ourselves with a large outdoor swing-set built from poles that lasted for years. I revived our experience and brought it into a new generation that has now blossomed through our daughter’s involvement in MOPS.
After field-testing a simple system with several volunteer families, I developed a two-step program. The first component is called “Rewarding Your Child.” It is offered with supportive recommendations, including an “age-appropriate job list.” A second component, called “Give Me Five” is designed to help create a monthly work schedule for the whole family.