Family Connections, located at Shaker Family Center in the former Sussex Elementary School (See City map for location) is an independent, 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that provides educational, social and recreational programs for young children of all abilities, ages birth to 5.

Family Connections
19824 Sussex Road
Shaker Heights, OH  44122
website: http://www.familyconnections1.org (for additional program information, fees and schedules)
Phone:  216-921-2023
Joanne Federman, Executive Director

The Patricia S. Mearns Family Playroom

Offers drop-in sessions for parents and their children ages birth to five providing opportunities to meet other parents, share experiences and gain information on child development and parenting challenges. Also included are drop-in sessions in the gym, equipped with various riding toys, climbing structures, and more.

Baby Talk

A weekly informal discussion group for parents and caregivers with infants up to 12 months old, led by Play and Learn Station Coordinator. Held in Patrica S. Mearns Family Playroom. Parents and caregivers have opportunities to share experiences with one another and staff and gain helpful information and support.

Play and Learn Station

A collaborative program between Family Connections and Shaker Heights Public Library. A free early childhood literacy activity center for families and caregivers with children ages birth to 5. Housed on the 2nd floor of the Shaker Heights Main Library.

Shaker Family Center gratefully acknowledges Shaker Heights Public Library, Help Me Grow of Cuyahoga County and the EMA Foundation for their generous financial support of Play and Learn Station.

Saturday Gym

Provides a safe play environment during cooler weather months for children ages birth to 5. Parents and caregivers can play with their children as they enjoy riding toys, climbing equipment and other activities in the gym and muscle room.

Birthday Parties

Fun and convenient birthday parties for young children ages 1 to 5. Parties booked Saturdays only. Includes:

• One hour in “Party Room” to enjoy lunch and cake
• One hour private use of the gym
• Add-ons:
  • Craft activities
  • Use of the bouncer, more.
• Call 216-921-2023 for rates, booking and more information.

Learning English as a Family (L.E.A.F)

Free literacy program for non-English speaking families with children, ages 2-1/2 to 5 years.

• Weekly drop-in group sessions at Shaker Family Center for adults and their children
• Outreach teacher visits to participating families in their homes, sharing stories and educational materials
• Although L.E.A.F. home visits are full at this time (families may add their names to the wait list) families are welcome and encouraged to come to the Monday evening group Session. 

Shaker Family Center gratefully acknowledges Dollar General Literacy Foundation, Help Me Grow of Cuyahoga County and the Reinberger Foundation for their generous financial support of the LEAF Program.

Parenting Classes

Free 8 week series offered three times during the school year at Shaker Family Center. Classes focus on topics to help parents learn to problem solve, manage feelings, give positive attention and more.

• Childcare and a light meal (for both adults and children) provided free, thanks to generous support from the Ohio Children’s Trust Fund. 
• Sessions held Thursday evenings
• Pre-registration required.
• In order to achieve the full benefit of the classes, participants are asked to commit to the full 8 week program.

Parent University

A series of monthly discussions featuring guest speakers discussing a variety of parenting topics such as children’s sleep issues, toileting advice, healthy nutrition and much more.