A parenting support worker or a support assistant can help a child or teenager with daily life, in dealing with their parents, and with social problems.

Possible forms of support include:

• Discussions about problems, fears, and behavior,
• Help in processing traumatic experiences,
• Support in resolving issues with family, friends, teachers, or others,
• Support with dealing with government agencies.
• For older teens, there are additional forms of support: help finding a job and housing,
• help with becoming independent from parents,
• help with becoming independent.

Note: Unlike “social-educational family assistance,” a youth welfare officer focuses his or her assistance primarily on the child or young person in question. Whenever possible, he or she also involves the child’s social environment.

This is a type of service provided under “educational assistance.” It may also apply to young adults.