The Family Map: A Tool for Understanding the Risks for Children in Families with Substance Abuse

Abstract

This article reviews the findings from our assessments of children and their families in two Head Start programs using the Family Map. Specifically, we used the Family Map assessment tool to identify risks to children associated with alcohol and drug use in families with young children. Practical suggestions are offered to administrators about the importance of identifying such risks to children. Understanding specific risks and knowing how to address them are keys to providing the best outcomes for the children in such families.

Keywords:

• home environment
• parenting