Come, follow me. Prevention Introduction
COME, FOLLOW ME
Jesus’s call to follow Him is for everyone—every time, every place. Long ago, He called Peter and Andrew by the Sea of Galilee, saying, “Come, follow me, and I will send you out to fish for people” (Matthew 4:19). He was inviting them to begin a new life with Him. Today, Jesus still invites you to leave behind old ways and live with hearts centered on Him.
Following Jesus is an exciting journey of change and growth. It means letting go of habits, fears, and unhelpful thinking, and learning to trust Him with your life and family. Following Jesus is not about rules—it is about building a close relationship. As you walk with Him, your heart and thoughts begins to change. Over time, you’ll want to live in ways that align with God’s plan. This change happens little by little and helps you become more like Jesus in your actions, words, and thoughts.
The CRAFTCONNECT Prevention Program is built on this same invitation. It does not demand change—it opens the door to it. Jesus taught, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34).
We invite you to learn and use these skills with your family. As you do, you’ll experience more peace, hope, and growth. Jesus’s invitation brings lasting meaning to you, your children and family, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).
WELCOME PARENTS & CAREGIVERS
Thank you choosing to being part of the CRAFTCONNECT Prevention Program. We are deeply grateful for your love and care for your children, and for your desire to build a happier, healthier, and more faith-filled family.
CRAFTCONNECT teaches practical skills that are kind, respectful, and loving—tools you can use every day. These skills are grounded in science and enriched by approaches such as CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training), Mindfulness, Peer Support, Wellness, Motivational Interviewing, and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy). Each tool is designed to strengthen your family through compassion, patience, and understanding.
We are thankful for those who made this program possible. Special gratitude goes to Dr. Robert J. Meyers, creator of CRAFT; Dr. Kevin McCauley; Dr. Jeffrey Foote from the Center for Motivation and Change; Dr. Marsha Linehan, who created DBT; and Eric Schmidt, CEO of New Roads Behavioral Health. Their vision, together with support from USARA (Utah Support Advocates for Recovery Awareness), Self-Reliance Services, NAMI, Family Services, and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, shaped the foundation of this program.
Since 2013, CRAFTCONNECT has walked alongside hundreds of families, helping them discover peace and hope in their homes. We are honored to walk with your family as well.
Kristin & John Garbett, Founding Partners
CRAFTCONNECT Family Support
Website: www.craftconnectfs.com
Email: info@craftconnectfs.com
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The CRAFTCONNECT Prevention Program helps school-age children (ages 10–18) make wise choices today and avoid problems in the future. It begins with what families already do well and builds on those strengths. When parents and children focus on what is good, real growth can follow.
The program talks about behavior in a kind, open, and respectful way—just as Jesus did. He spent time with families, children, and neighbors, listening to them and showing love. That same spirit of patience and compassion is at the heart of this program.
A unique feature of CRAFTCONNECT is the Family Chat. Each week, parents take what they learn in group sessions and bring it home in a simple, guided conversation with their children. These chats give families a safe space to share, listen, and practice skills together. Over time, Family Chats help build stronger bonds and help to make changes last.
Here are the three main goals:
Goal #1: Prevent unwanted behavior by creating positive change at home. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them” (Matthew 19:14). We honor His words by guiding children with kindness, setting consistent boundaries, and encouraging healthy habits. Small, steady actions shape an environment where children choose wisely and grow with confidence.
Goal #2: Strengthen family bonds by creating a safe and loving space. Jesus said, “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 13:34). Families grow strong when love is shown through patience, forgiveness, and encouragement. Children who feel safe and valued are more willing to share, listen, and learn. Love becomes the foundation that holds families together through challenges.
Goal #3: Build joy through caring, Christ-centered relationships. Jesus said, “That my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:11). Joy grows when families practice gratitude, kindness, and service. Even in stress, joy reminds us of God’s presence at home. A joyful spirit creates lasting memories of love and belonging.
GETTING STARTED
CRAFTCONNECT may feel different from other programs you’ve tried, so we want to answer a few common questions. Support groups give parents and caregivers a safe place to learn and share with others who also face the challenges of raising children with tough behaviors. Each session stands on its own, meaning every week you’ll leave with a new skill you can begin using right away. The program includes seven group sessions designed to help families make small, intentional changes at home. These changes are introduced gradually, allowing growth and strength to build step by step. Each session lasts about 50 minutes and combines scripture study, group discussion, and hands-on practice.
You’ll learn both in a supportive group setting and through family activities at home—gaining practical skills that increase health, strengthen relationships, and deepen connection.
Learning In a Group
CRAFTCONNECT groups function as a team where everyone participates. The leader does not lecture but instead guides the workbook and supports the group’s growth. Leaders help create a kind, respectful, and encouraging space. They celebrate progress and offer extra support if challenges arise between meetings. Groups thrive when everyone joins in—sharing ideas, doing activities, encouraging each other, and keeping commitments. You’ll see the same helpful prompts throughout the workbook that will help you get the most from each session:
· Think: Quiet reflection, writing, or prayer for 2–3 minutes.
· Read: One person reads aloud (if numbered, take turns in order).
· Talk About It: Group members share ideas for 2–4 minutes.
· Activity: Work alone or with a partner for the time listed.
· Commit: Each person promises to try one new skill during the week.
Learning With Your Family
One of the most meaningful parts of this program is the Family Chat. These guided conversations bring group skills into your home, giving parents and children the chance to share, listen, and practice together. Over time, Family Chats create a steady rhythm of connection that builds trust and helps changes last.
Between group sessions, gather your family in a comfortable space and use the Family Chat to start meaningful conversations. Each 20-minute discussion is designed to help parents and children talk, listen, and learn from one another in simple, practical ways. Versions are available for older and younger children using “Winne-the-Pooh” characters. Choose which version best fits your family. Family Chats encourage open sharing, deeper understanding, and stronger bonds. They reflect Jesus’s prayer “that they all may be one” (John 17:21). When adapted to your child’s level, they become meaningful for everyone. Practicing these skills together nurtures trust, strengthens family ties, and builds a peaceful home grounded in love, respect, and faith.
HOW EVERYONE BENEFITS
When you use the CRAFTCONNECT Prevention Program, your family may notice these benefits:
Understanding and Managing Behaviors. Instead of just reacting to bad behavior, you’ll learn what’s behind it and how to handle it better. This helps your home become more calm and peaceful. “Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14)
Encouraging Independence and Responsibility. When you stop nagging and let your child take charge of their actions, they learn to be responsible. They start to make better choices and feel proud of themselves. “For each will have to bear his own load.” (Galatians 6:5)
Making Behavior Change Easier. Changing behavior is easier when it’s broken into small steps. Your child can make little promises each day. Over time, those little changes lead to big results. “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much.” (Luke 16:10)
Helping Children Feel More in Control. When your child helps make a plan to change their behavior, they feel in control. That feeling helps the change last longer and work better. “Let all things be done decently and in order.” (1 Corinthians 14:40)
Meeting Children’s Needs. When you learn what your child really needs, you can help before problems begin. This helps stop unwanted behaviors before they start. “Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.” (Matthew 6:32)
Building a Team with Your Child. Working together with your child in a kind and open way builds trust. Talking about what causes problems can help stop them from happening again. “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3)
Teaching Life Skills. When you teach your child skills to keep good habits, you’re helping them grow into a strong and healthy adult. These skills will help them for the rest of their lives. “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4)
Note: This group is for learning only. It is not therapy or treatment for mental health problems. If you or someone in your family has long-lasting sadness, worry, anger, substance use, or other serious problems, please talk to a professional.