The HANDS Program for First-Time and Teen 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 mentors.

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 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 social workers, public health nurses and others can be made as needed.
• During pregnancy, a home visitor meets with the family 1-4x 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!

To obtain more information about the HANDS program in Fayette County, call (859) 288-2324 or 288-2318.

See Also

• State HANDS Program Website
• Healthy Babies are Worth The Wait: http://www.prematurityprevention.org