Nurturing Family Growth

What We Do & How We Do What We Do

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What We Do

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Pursuit of Excellence Institute of Family Education provides various programs, activities, and services in six major domains of family education:

• Spiritual Development and Growth

• Physical Development and Growth

• Mental and Emotional Development and Growth

• Intellectual Development and Growth

• Relational Development and Growth

• Functional Development and Growth

Because personal and family development and growth is a complex, interwoven experience, each of these six domains is vital. We cannot affect one of them without effecting all of them. Therefore, Pursuit of Excellence Institute of Family Education not only offers programs, services, and activities, in each of these domains, on a single emphasis basis, but also offers all of them together, on a composite emphasis basis. Described hereafter are the foundational elements of each domain.

Spiritual Development and Growth ~

1. Scripture Study Programs ~

Reading the Scriptures, especially daily reading, is a great benefit to our lives, but it is of even greater value to study them. Therefore, this element of the Spiritual Development and Growth Domain focuses on the basic components and techniques of effective Scripture Study.

1. Prayer Lessons ~

Comparatively to communications we have with family, friends, and others who are not within our presence, prayer is a “phone call” to Heavenly Father; we “call Him”, talk to Him, listen to Him, and then act upon His communications with us. Now, just as would a phone call to our earthly father or mother be a conversation rather than a recitation, so should be our phone call, or prayer, to our Heavenly Father. Ergo, this element of the Spiritual Development and Growth Domain focuses on the primary principles and practices of Proper Prayer.

1. Godhead Discussions ~

Because it is vitally important to our spiritual progression to understand the true nature of the Godhead, and our relationship to them, this element of the Spiritual Development and Growth Domain true nature of our Heavenly Father, our Heavenly Mother, our Brother and Savior Jesus the Christ, and the Holy Spirit.

1. Plan of Salvation Courses ~

Effective spiritual progression is dependent upon more than simply knowing that there is a God. It requires the acquisition and understanding of the knowledge of our creation, that we lived before we were born and will live after we die, the purpose of this life, and the laws that God provided as a course map for our journey through mortality. These factors are the focus of this element of the Spiritual Development and Growth Domain.

1. Spiritual Principles Application Courses ~

Knowledge and understanding of the Plan of Salvation, or the Plan of Happiness, as it is also known, enables us to know and understand where we came from, why we are here, and where we will go after this life, based upon how we chose to live while we were here. However, because we need more than to just know ~ we need to do ~ this element of the Spiritual Development and Growth Domain focuses on the application, in our daily lives, of the principles of God’s Gospel. This includes more than just the applications of the Gospel in our actions, words, and thoughts; it also includes the application of these principles in our choices regarding work, play, art, music, recreation, etc., all those things that are a part of our lives.

Physical Development and Growth ~

1. Proper Nutrition Courses ~

This element of the Physical Development and Growth Domain focuses on the Mediterranean Diet, which has been proven in all of the studies on diet plans, over the course of time, to be the most healthy and beneficial eating plan, the best overall diet for good health, and as a critical part of preventative medicine. Modifications for specific health needs will also be presented. In addition to discussion about the diet plan itself and its application, foods that aid in healthy maintenance will be discussed, e. g. foods that help to prevent Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Loss, foods that enable better sleep cycles, stronger heart and lung conditions, foods that strengthen vision and hearing, and much more.

1. Physical Fitness Program ~

Various types of exercise programs and physical activities will be presented and taught through this element of the Physical Development and Growth Domain. Programs presented will be specific to individuals and families based on ages, overall health conditions, abilities, and resources. Family programs will be designed to be completed in a cooperative manner by all family members with considerations given to the abilities and/or limitations of each individual. Although it is beneficial and advisable to work with a partner, programs designed for solo execution will also be offered. All programs will be designed in ways that will enable the participants to perform them at home. However, onsite group and/or individual programs will also be available.

1. Proper and Appropriate Grooming Discussions ~

This element of the Physical Development and Growth Domain will address effective healthy methods of body cleansing, modest dress, and positive appearance. The primary focus will center on the products and procedures for cleansing, styles of dress and the image they express, and the reasons for and benefits of a wholesome appearance.

Mental and Emotional Development and Growth ~

1. Psycho-Educational Courses ~

This element of the Mental and Emotional Development and Growth Domain will address all aspects of mental and emotional health. Courses offered will focus on the functioning, understanding, and management of emotional and mental health factors. Topics will include, but not be limited to:

1. Emotional Management, e.g., Anxiety, Anger, Stress, Over-Excitation, Unrealistic Pleasure, Misdirected Emotional Expression, Addiction, etc.

2. Healthy Realistic Scheduling

3. Positive Awareness in Daily Living

4. Appropriate Methods of Addressing Problems and Challenges

5. Setting and Attaining Realistic Goals

6. Multiple Types and Purposes of Journaling

7. Planning and Engagement in Appropriate, Enjoyable, Pleasing Activities

8. Healthy Relationships with family, friends, associates, and self

9. Ongoing Learning and Skills Development

10. Beneficial Service

1.  Individual and/or Group Discussions ~

To better enable the understanding and application of proper and effective mental and emotional health practices, this element of the Mental and Emotional Development and Growth Domain will offer personalized instructions on both an individual and a group basis. These meetings will be instructional in nature, not therapeutic.

1. Individual and/or Group Therapy Sessions ~

This element of the Mental and Emotional Development Domain will be, as its title indicates, for the purpose of offering therapeutic assessments and services to those requesting or requiring such. These services are and will be designed to address any and all mental and emotional ramifications be they based in mental/emotional, intellectual, physical, relational, or spiritual challenges.

Intellectual Development and Growth ~

1. Engagement in Academic Programs ~

This element of the Intellectual Development and Growth Domain centers around academic education obtained on all levels from Pre-school Learning to Post-Graduate Instruction.

The primary focus of the programs on the Pre-school through the Senior year of High School level is Home-Education. Through seminars and discussion groups, parents, guardians, and assistant instructors will be able to receive instruction and training in teaching methods, application of those methods, selection of curriculum, extra-curricular activities and engagements, and any and all other aspects of the Home-Education process.

On all levels of learning, and specifically on the college and post-graduate levels, seminars and discussion groups will be offered on any topic, subject, or application for which there is need and/or interest to enable greater learning and understanding.

On all levels of learning, tutorial programs will also be available.

1. Engagement in Experiential Programs ~

Experiential learning is achieved through the actual doing and applying of what has been or is being learned. Ergo, through this element of the Intellectual Development and Growth Domain, hands-on-learning activities will be provided in all applicable subject areas.

1. Engagement in Apprenticeship Programs ~

This element of the Intellectual Development and Growth Domain will enable work experiences and professional preparation through cooperative alliances with businesses, tradesmen, professionals, etc.

Relational Development and Growth ~

Within the Domain of Relational Development and Growth, classes, discussion groups, seminars, and interactive activities, designed to teach and enable families to truly be, interact, and function as families, will be offered through the following elements:

1. Family Relationships in Two-Parent Homes ~

1. Husband/Wife Relationships

2. Parent/Child Relationships

3. Sibling Relationships

1. Family Relationships in Single-Parent Homes ~

1. Parent/Child Relationships

2. Sibling Relationships

1. Family Relationships in Blended Family Homes ~

1. Husband/Wife Relationships

2. Relationships with Ex-Spouse(s) and His/Her Spouse

3. Parent/Child Relationships with:

*Residential Custody Birth and Step Parents

*Non-Residential Custody Birth and Step Parents

*Split Custody Parent and Step Parent

1. Sibling Relationships with:

*Birth Siblings

*Step Siblings Who Visit

* Step Siblings Who Live-in Full-time

1. Family Relationships in Special/Different/Unusual/Distant Settings ~

Applied on and individual basis, as circumstances vary

1. Family Relationships with Extended Families ~

Interactive relationships either in close or distant settings with:

a. Grandparents

b. Uncles and Aunts

c. Cousins

1. Family Relationships Continuations ~

This element focuses on two practices vital to the development, implementation, and continuous positive interactive relationships between family members:

1. The inclusion of friends into family relationships and the inclusion of family into relationships with friends

2. The continuation of family relationships over time and as things change

Functional Development and Growth ~

Essential to family relationships is healthy, appropriate, and continued individual Functional Development and Growth. Ergo, this Domain focuses on six elements that enable enhanced personal and family functioning:

1. Positive Perspective with Awareness of Negative Factors ~

Balance is an essential factor in healthy living. Ergo, through discussion groups and seminars, this element of the Functional Development and Growth Domain will address techniques for positive focusing while remaining aware of negative factors.

1. Elimination of Over-taxation ~

Because it is absolutely essential to keep life realistic, a variety of practices that enable healthy balance will be presented through this element of the Functional Development and Growth Domain. Included will be such topics as:

1. Use of Realistic Schedules

*Priority Scheduling

*Inclusion of Down-Time

*Allowance for Fun-Time

1. Realistic Development of Goals and Commitments

2. Effective Journaling Through the Use of a Variety of Journals:

Personal PrayerGoalsGratitude

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1. Appropriate Application of Fitting Problem-Solving Methods ~

Challenges are a natural part of life. It is essential that they be addressed by means and methods that will not only ‘solve’ the problem, but will enable resulting growth. This element of the Functional Development and Growth Domain will focus on various problem-solving techniques and their most efficacious applications.

1. Active Engagement in Continued Learning ~

It is absolutely impossible to learn everything there is to be learned. Nevertheless, continued learning provides increased capabilities and lays the foundation for continued personal growth and self-approval. Ergo, this element of the Functional Development and Growth Domain discusses methods and topics of greatest worth on an individual and family basis. Also addressed, are the best and most effective means of obtaining continued knowledge.

1. Active Engagement in Uplifting Activities, Service, Recreations, etc. ~

Because self-significance is another vital aspect of a healthy balance in life, the importance of service and recreation cannot be overlooked. Ergo, in this element of the Functional Development and Growth Domain individuals and families are taught how to plan and carry out activities, service projects, and recreations that will uplift them and enlighten their lives. Also available to them, by their choice, will be activities, services, and recreations organized by the institute and other participants thereof.

1. Development of Skills ~

This element of the Functional Development and Growth Domain provides instruction in a wide variety of skills that include, but are not limited to:

Household ManagementGardening

Effective Chore Procedures Cooking, Baking, Grilling, etc.

Lawn and Yard CareWoodworking

Renovating and RemodelingSewing and Crafting

Home Decorating Holiday and Non-Holiday Celebrating

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How We Do What We Do

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The eternal value and importance of families could never be overstated. With that truth as the foundational basis for the incorporation of Pursuit of Excellence Institute of Family Education, it follows that its primary purposes and goals are the instructing, strengthening, and supporting of families. To fulfill these purposes and achieve these goals, five sets of Programs are offered to enable full family functioning.

1. Instructional Classes

Instructional Classes will be offered both on an In-Person and an On-Line basis for all applicable family pertinent themes and topics. They will be presented, as best suited for the participants, in the following formats:

1. Study Courses ~

Materials, with appropriate and adequate instructions, will be provided for study and application. Assignments will be given with completion and submission of them expected. Assessment evaluations of learning and progress will be administered throughout and at the completion of the course.

1. Discussion Groups ~

Discussion Groups will be offered both on an In-Person and an On-Line basis for all applicable family pertinent themes and topics. They will be open discussions, with all participants being encouraged to share their knowledge and experiences on the matters being discussed. A Group Leader will be appointed for the primary purpose of keeping the discussion on topic.

1. Role Playing Applications ~

Role Playing Applications will be conducted primarily on an In-Person basis but may be scheduled On-Line through virtual media applications when possible. Participants will be given scenarios relating to family interaction. After discussing approaches to the outplay of their scenarios, they will role play, or act out, the approach they designed. Discussion of the appropriateness, applicability, and outcome of the approach will follow.

1. Activity Gatherings

Activity Gatherings will be offered primarily on an In-Person basis due to the nature of this program. However, On-Line planning sessions will be offered so as to enable families in all locations to participate in the same activities.

The purpose of this program is to reintroduce and support family interaction. Activities will involve multiple families interacting together with all family members involved. Family types include:

a. Two parent families with no children

b. Two parent families with children

c. Single parent families with children

d. Single parent families with no children (This is a parent living alone due to the children being grown and out of the home, or due to a divorce situation in which the children are away with the other parent.)

e. Blended families

f. Single adults with no family connections

Activities will include but not be limited to:

Yardwork and GardeningShopping Trips

Service ProjectsWoodworking

Remodeling and Renovation ProjectsSpeech and Drama

Arts and CraftsPuzzles and Games

Sewing and NeedleworkHobbies

Any other Activities, Projects, or Services for which there is an interest

1. Recreational Programs

Recreational Programs will be offered primarily on an In-Person basis due to the nature of this program. However, On-Line planning sessions will be offered so as to enable families in all locations to participate in the same activities.

The purpose of this program is to reintroduce and support family interaction. Activities will involve multiple families interacting together with all family members involved. Family types include:

a. Two parent families with no children

b. Two parent families with children

c. Single parent families with children

d. Single parent families with no children (This is a parent living alone due to the children being grown and out of the home, or due to a divorce situation in which the children are away with the other parent.)

e. Blended families

f. Single adults with no family connections

Recreational Programs will include but not be limited to:

Board GamesRaces and Marathons

Playground GamesPicnics

Walking, Hiking, ClimbingHealth and Fitness

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Water Games/BoatingSite Seeing/Touring

Any other Recreational engagements for which there is an interest

1. Service Opportunities

Service Opportunities will be offered primarily on an In-Person basis due to the nature of this program. However, On-Line consultation sessions will be offered so as to enable families in all locations to serve those in need.

The purpose of this program is to assist families in becoming involved in their communities and to reach out to others on a family basis, not just as an individual. Service Opportunities will involve multiple families interacting together with all family members involved. Family types include:

a. Two parent families with no children

b. Two parent families with children

c. Single parent families with children

d. Single parent families with no children (This is a parent living alone due to the children being grown and out of the home, or due to a divorce situation in which the children are away with the other parent.)

e. Blended families

f. Single adults with no family connections

Service Opportunities will include those that meet the needs of individuals, families, and groups, on a personal basis, as well as assisting other service agencies, organizations, and churches.

1. Therapy Sessions

Therapy Sessions will be offered primarily on an In-Person basis. However, where there is a qualified need, they will also be offered through an On-Line Domain. They will include:

1. Mental Health Therapy

2. Emotional Health Therapy

3. Intellectual Health Therapy

4. Physical Health Therapy

5. Spiritual Health Therapy

Sessions will be conducted on individual, couples, siblings, family, and group bases. They will also be offered as Psycho-Educational Meetings, both on an

In-Person and On-Line basis.