Services

Specially trained public health nurses provide a number of services during home visits.  For the mother's convenience, the visits generally take place in her home.  The nurses are prepared to answer questions and provide guidance that will promote the health, safety and optimum development of the child.  Children First services are FREE to all eligible mothers.

The following services are provided during visits:

• Brief health assessments
• Child growth and development evaluations
• Nutrition education
• Parenting and relationship information
• Links to other services such as child care, education and job training

These services are not intended to replace services provided by the mother or child's primary health care provider.  Nurses will work collaboratively with such providers to assure the needs of the family are met.

Home Visit Schedule

Visits must begin before the 29th week of pregnancy and may continue until the child's second birthday.  Generally the nurse will visit every week or two, however the mother and the nurse decide the exact schedule.  

Home Visit Participants

Children First encourages fathers, family members and even friends to be involved in the visits and learn how they can best support the mother.  The mother and the nurse decide who gets involved.