Congratulations!
You are having a baby!

So now what?
Concerned about What will happen after you take him home?
Wondering how you will know if she is eating enough?
Are you feeling stressed o overwhelmed?

Many new parents would like a second pair or HANDS.

(Have a link to a new page. I was thinking th above information would look nice as a standalone with a pic of hands or a baby or something)

The HANDS Program for First-Time and Teen Parents

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

Healthy Access Nurturing Development Services (HANDS) is a free, voluntary program that pairs first-time parents with skilled mentors.

Starting before the baby arrives, HANDS home visitors 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 believes:

• All families have strengths
• All families want the best for their children.
• Families are responsible for their children.
• Families are the main decision-makers for their young children.
   

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
   

Why Participate in HANDS?

• 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.
   

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 unti 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 1-4 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 immunizations and regular health care.
• As the family progresses, visits are gradually decreased and end when the child reaches 2 years old

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