Frequently Asked Questions

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/)