What Is Eckerd's Parenting Education Program?

Eckerd Connects’ Parenting Education Program (PEP) is a free, structured parenting support program designed to strengthen families and promote the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect. PEP serves adults in Brevard County, Florida who are in treatment and/or recovery for substance use and who are actively parenting or in parenting relationships with children.

Because parenting does not come with instructions, especially when families are navigating recovery, PEP focuses on helping parents grow in confidence, self-awareness, and connection with their children. Through education, reflection, and guided support, parents are empowered to build healthier relationships and create safer, more nurturing home environments for their families.

Our Services

Nine-week parenting education program with two-hour weekly sessions focused on skill-building and family growth
Individual and group class options allow parents to learn in the setting that best supports their progress
In-person and virtual classes increase access for parents facing transportation, work, or scheduling barriers
Evidence-based curriculum to build attachment, emotional awareness, and positive skills
In-person intake and ongoing support ensure services are tailored to each family’s unique needs

Why Is It Important?

Families affected by substance use face increased risks related to stress, disconnection, and instability — factors that can negatively impact both parents and children. The Parenting Education Program plays a critical role in breaking cycles of harm by strengthening parental capacity, improving emotional regulation, and reinforcing healthy family relationships.

By helping parents nurture themselves and their children, rebuild trust, and strengthen self-esteem, PEP supports long-term family stability and child well-being. The program not only reduces the risk of abuse and neglect, but also promotes healing, resilience, and healthier futures for children and parents alike.

What Makes It Unique?

  • A holistic, compassionate approach, allowing parents to develop practical skills while also restoring confidence, dignity, and hope
  • A strong emphasis on parent-child attachment and bonding, helping families heal together
  • A focus on self-awareness and emotional attunement, encouraging parents to understand both their own needs and their children’s needs
  • Strength-based approaches that help parents identify and build on existing family assets, rather than focusing only on deficits
  • Specialized attention to co-occurring disorders and recovery-related stressors that impact parenting

Our Location

Eckerd Connect | Rockledge Office
3819 Murrell Rd., Suite E
Rockledge, FL 32955

Contact: Diana Kundrotas
Office: (321) 735-7249
BrevardFamily@eckerd.org