The HANDS Program for first-time parents

Becoming a parent is a big challenge, especially with the first child.

Health Access Nurturing Development Services (HANDS) is a free, voluntary program that pairs up first-time parents with skilled Family Support Worker/s.

Starting before the baby arrives, HANDS staff meet with expecting parents to help them learn about and practice life-style choices to give their baby the best possible start in life.

HANDS Goals are:

• Positive pregnancy outcomes
• Optimal child growth and development
• Healthy, safe homes for children
• Long-term independence for the family through smart decision-making

HANDS services are offered to any first time parent on a voluntary basis. The family can enter the program during pregnancy and up until the baby is 12 weeks or 3 months old. Families can continue in the program until the child is 2 years of age. Most HANDS visits are done in the family's home. Information about other resources is made available as needed.

• A parent visitor meets with the expecting or new family to determine what services would benefit them. Referrals to community resources can be given to meet each families individual needs.
• During pregnancy, a home visitor meets with the family one to four times a month to teach about prenatal care, basic childcare, and parenting skills.
• Once the baby is born, visits can be as often as every week to provide mentoring, support, problem solving, assistance with goal setting, and teaching on life skills, child development, home safety and the importance of immunization/health care.
• As the family progresses, visits are gradually decreased and end when the child reaches age 2.

EVERY PARENT NEEDS A SECOND PAIR OF HANDS!

For more information call Laura Cornelius at (859) 885-4149 Ext 1012 or Dora Johnson at (859) 885-4149 Ext 1004