Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during a home visit?

Home visits are usually about an hour, and usually are at your home. But sometimes we might meet up in a park, or another place that feels comfortable for you. What we talk about and what we do on the home visits is really led by you.

• We’ll start with your observations, your expertise, your curiosities, and your questions – While I might come with expertise in parent-child relationships, you are the expert on your family. You’re with them constantly, seeing every little change in your child. And we’ll build off of that expertise – the things you notice and the things you are curious about! If you have questions about when your baby will smile or laugh, we’ll talk about that! If you’re worried about your baby starting to crawl and what they will put in their mouths, we’ll talk about that!

• If you’re having a hard day, we’ll sit with you in that moment – Many parents in HFA have experienced, or are currently experiencing, high levels of stress. Sometimes the stress comes from lacking access to basic needs, like adequate food, clothing, a place to live. Sometimes, the stress comes from other relationships in your life. Sometimes, there are critical health needs or concerns. Sometimes, the stress comes from just being a new parent and not having anyone to support you. You’re not alone. If and when you experience those things, sometimes we’ll need to just focus on that during our time together. And if there are things we can do to support you – getting you connected to a community resource, helping you problem solve, we’ll do that!

• We’ll focus on the relationships between you and your children – One of the most important things we’ll do with you and your family is observe and respond to the interactions between you and your child. All of the little moments between you both add up over time and tell us about the quality of the relationship that is developing. We will support you in building a nurturing relationship with your child—the kind of relationship that makes a child feel safe and comforted.

• We’ll support the dreams and goals you have for your family – With this new (or-soon-to-be-new) addition to your family, you probably have some ideas about the kind of parent you want to be, the kind of family culture you want to create, and the kind of life you’ll all live together. We can’t wait to hear what you’re dreaming about, and we’re here to support you on your journey – wherever YOU decide that will lead.

How does the program work?

During the prenatal period, you may be asked to fill out a Sign Up form at your doctor’s office, health department, WIC office, or various other places. You can also refer yourself by clicking Sign Up on left side of this page.  After receiving the Sign Up form, one of our trained Family Support Specialists (FSS) will contact you to schedule an initial home visit (this can be in person or virtual).  At this initial visit, the FSS will discuss any questions or concerns about pregnancy or a baby’s first years. They will explain the program in more detail and answer any questions you may have.  They will also ask you a variety of questions to learn more about your family’s unique situation.

If you choose to enroll in the Healthy Families Mountain State™ program, your FSS will visit your home weekly or biweekly to share information in areas such as recognizing your baby’s needs, what to expect as your baby grows, bonding and attachment, making your home safe, setting and achieving goals, community resources, and many other topics. Home visits will be scheduled at your convenience and the program is 100% voluntary.  Virtual visits are also available.  These services are provided at no cost to you and anyone can benefit from the support!

Why participate?

• Parents are the most important people in a baby’s life.
• Parents are the first and most important teachers a child will ever have.
• Parenting is a very demanding job and all parents have worries, questions, and stress.

What can parents expect?

• Support through your pregnancy and the early years of your baby’s life.
• Information on how to care for your baby.
• Facts that will let you know your baby is growing and developing in healthy ways.
• Activities that you and your baby can enjoy together that can stimulate your child’s brain and physical development.
• Ways to make your home safer for your baby.
• Access to other community services.

What are the main goals of Healthy Families America® (HFA)?

• Healthy pregnancies and births – HFA mothers experience a 70% reduction in pregnancy complications. (https://www.healthyfamiliesamerica.org/our-impact/)
• Healthy child growth and development – HFA children score higher on tests of cognitive development or developmental screenings at one and two years, and have fewer behavioral problems, compared to control groups.  (https://www.healthyfamiliesamerica.org/impact-on-children/)
• Self-sufficient families – HFA parents report stronger parenting efficacy, reduced parenting stress levels, and more positive perspectives on their parenting roles and responsibilities. (https://www.healthyfamiliesamerica.org/impact-on-parents-and-families/)