Parents want their children to be healthy, happy and thriving, but some worry they might not be spending enough quality time together as a family.

Purdue Extension is offering a free seven-week virtual program to equip parents with the tools they need to continue to be the No. 1 influence in their children’s lives.

Strengthening Families is an evidence-based program for parents and youth ages 10 to 14. The skills-building curriculum encourages learning from each other and discussion of important family topics, strengthens parent/youth communication skills, increases academic success in youth and improves communication and allows parents and youth to practice skills with games, activities and family projects.

The virtual course will begin Oct. 5 and continue Oct. 12, 19 and 26 and Nov. 2, 9 and 16.

There are set times for parents (noon to 1 p.m.) and youth (5:30 to 6:30 p.m.) to participate separately and then together as a family (7 to 8 p.m.).

Materials and supplies will be mailed to the families registered for the program. There is no registration fee. Families can register online at forms.gle/jxEvQmxrDDNyARrb8 by Sept. 27.