The Primary Project is a school based early/detection and prevention program. The program is designed to enhance learning and adjustment skills as well as maximize healthy school adjustment in preschool through third grade children. Primary Project is targeted primarily to children with evident adjustment problems in the mild to moderate range, not children with serious dysfunction. Through “supportive” play, the child’s individual goals are met in a safe environment, and their competencies, social skills, and strengths are reinforced. The key to Primary Project is to prevent problems rather than using more traditional and costly services that undo problems after they develop. This evidence based practice model was developed by the Children’s Institute of Rochester, New York in 1957. Over 600 school districts nationwide have Primary Project.
Primary Project is offered in Talbot County public schools. Grant funding sources have included the Talbot Family Network, Talbot County Department of Social Services, The Women and Girls Fund, Christmas in St. Michael's and The United Fund of Talbot County. Current funding is provided by an Anonymous Foundation, The Talbot County Health Department, and the Van Strum Foundation.
Visit The Children’s Institute web site.