Family support staff need a broad range of knowledge and skills and an understanding of the multiple psychosocial, biological, and cultural factors influencing human behavior, development, and relationships. This training curriculum, based on concepts of adult learning and the assumption that feeling and self-reflection are at the core of learning, is designed to introduce new staff to the principles and practices of family support, providing a basic survey of issues and concepts that practitioners are likely to encounter in direct family support work. The interactive curriculum is comprised of 8 modules, designed to take 5 days for groups of 10 to 30 participants. Two additional modules on support groups and working as a team are included in appendices. The curriculum guide begins with an introduction describing the curriculum and trainers' qualifications. A training overview details the purpose and participant learning goals for each training day. The eight training modules are: (1) principles and practices of family support programs; (2) family support models and practice; (3) appreciating diversity; (4) building relationships with families; (5) home visiting; (6) exploring family strengths and developing Family Partnership Plans; (7) building community; and (8) supporting families in center-based programs. Trainer notes provide suggestions for planning, adapting the program, concluding, and evaluating the program. Each training module presents the purpose and participant learning goals; delineates the time required, materials provided or needed, and trainer preparation steps; details activities, including discussion, mini-lectures, and videotapes; lists recommended readings; and contains relevant handouts. (KB)