BILLINGS - The Department of Justice estimates 7 million American children have a parent in either jail, prison, probation or on parole. The Montana Womens Prison's parenting program is helping stop painful family cycles.

The parenting program at the Montana Women's Prison allows for visits like the one recently held between inmate Kendra Runsabove and her 3-year-old son. Runsabove says, "I've learned a lot from this program. One thing is how to connect with my son."

The program also gives inmate Gina Montgomery, who gave birth while incarcerated, a chance to record video messages to her 16-month-old son who is in Idaho. "Before I had Jimmy I was always pushing people away. I figured, if I push you away, you can't hurt me."

For both women, the program is helping them create bonds with their children. The kinds of connections they never had with their own mothers. Runsabove says, "I just wanted to hear my mom say I love you. I never had this bond with my kids before. In some ways I think I came to prison for a reason, to learn how to be an adult and not just be a person with two kids but someone who can connect with them."

Although so much is separating incarcerated mothers from their children, studies are showing children are better off to have ties with moms in prison, as long as that contact is healthy and positive.

The non-profit group called Family Tree contracts with the Montana Women's Prison to provide the parenting program. The Family Tree recently received an important grant from the Montana Department of Corrections. The money helps pay for gas to bring kids to the prison. It also creates greater support for the people who are caring for children while their mothers are serving out their sentences.

Program coordinator Julie Gauthier emphasizes self-care for mothers behind bars. "One thing we really stress here is that you cannot be a healthy parent if you are not a healthy person." Gauthier says she's seen many inspiring turnarounds. Like Gina Montgomery. "I can't love my son unless I love myself. That's one thing Julie's taught me and I didn't know that." Said Montgomery.

Studies show women with strong family ties are six times less likely to return to prison. Parenting programs like the one offered at the Montana Women's Prison give mothers behind bars a chance to shape new relationships with their children and forge new paths that might keep them from ever coming back.