When three-year-old Carlos arrived from Mexico with his mom, Francisca, and older brother, Brian, in September 2021, Carlos and Brian only spoke Mixteco (a Mexican dialect). They soon discovered the Encompass ParentChild+ program – a free bilingual, in-home literacy coaching program for young children and parents. At the time, Carlos exceeded the age limit to participate, but Program Manager Lynne Creed requested special permission and he was accepted.

Carlos meets with Encompass Early Literacy Specialist Maria Miranda twice a week. He receives educational games and books, and Maria is already noticing a significant improvement in his Spanish and English language as well as a more robust vocabulary. With every visit, he works on art, singing, sharing, practices his fine and gross motor and social skills. All these activities help to create a routine that fosters his school readiness.

In addition to early literacy coaching for Carlos and his mom, ParentChild+ provided access to other programs and services to help the whole family. The boys received birthday gifts, diapers, winter clothes, car seats, Christmas gifts, and library books. For Francisca, there were holiday gift cards, clothes, and kitchen supplies.

Maria collaborated with Encompass Family Support Specialist Alba Panco who provided references for Brian to enroll in the Issaquah School District preschool program alongside free legal services to organize their immigration status. Needed resources such as access to the local food bank, Covid-19 testing and vaccine information, and dental services were also provided.

Francisca found work with a preschool program in Issaquah that allows her to take Carlos to work with her. The school district bus drops Brian to her preschool after his school day has ended so she can complete her workday and not worry about childcare or transportation needs.

Francisca is working hard to establish her immigration status and provide for her family. She is grateful for the Encompass ParentChild+ Program connecting her family with so many resources, materials, and tools to have a better life as they settle into their new home.