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OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Sunday was all about coming together as a family at the Iowa State University Extension office in Ottumwa for a program called “Strengthening Families.”

The workshop was open to Ottumwa sixth-graders and their parents.

The goal was to provide the tools necessary to successfully communicate with one another.

“They've all said that it's really helped. They've learned a lot -- parents learn a lot of tips about how to communicate, how to deal with discipline fairly and get the kid involved and get them to talk a little bit more if they're having issues at school. Also talk about how to talk more with the school principals,” said Selena Jacobs, coordinator.

Jacobs said the Evans Middle School counselors really helped with getting sixth-graders and their families signed up for the beneficial workshop.

Sunday was just one of two “Strengthening Families” workshops that will be put on.