Family Visitation
The Children’s Institute Family Visitation Program embodies everything we believe. Namely, that helping kids spend time with their family in a
safe, loving environment is good for everyone. Especially the kids.
That’s why, rather than taking a legalistic or judgmental approach to court-ordered supervised visitation, we employ a very family-centric
approach.

Helping parents is the first step.
```````Our caseworkers meet with the parents before our supervised visits begin. We listen to their concerns and we find out what types of information
and skills they need, and what they need to practice.
Then, during a supervised visit, acting as a combination coach/role model, we give them the opportunity to learn, develop skills, and practice
discipline, communication and child development. After the visit is over, we talk to the parents about what went right and what didn’t, and
prepare for the next time.
The best way to practice being home is in a home-like environment.
Frequently, supervised visitation happens in conference room or an office. While that’s a positive step, it doesn’t allow for some of the more
organic moments that come from a home environment. That’s why Children’s Institute created the Family Visitation Center.
Located on our Squirrel Hill campus, this facility looks, feels and acts like a real home. This location provides a warm, inviting atmosphere
and the chance for natural interactions. There’s also a fully-equipped kitchen, and a living and dining room. Here, families are better able
to feel at home, and work on how to be at home.
A program with real staying power.
At the end of the day, reunification doesn’t happen until the caseworkers and courts believe the parents are ready and the child will be safe and
nurtured.
That said, 90% of the families who work through our Family Visitation program are reunified. That’s an outstanding number, but it pales in
comparison to what it means to countless children and their families. Contact Bethany Leas at 412-244-3075 or [email protected]titute.org to learn more.
For more information on each of our visitation programs, download our printable information:
Beaver County
Pittsburgh
Westmoreland County