Childhood Begins at Home

Evidence-based home visiting programs recognize that parents are children’s first teachers, but sometimes, parents and others who raise children look for help. Far too many of Pennsylvania’s youngest children live in poverty and experience poor education and health outcomes.

Voluntary home visiting programs help parents and others raising children with the supports necessary to improve maternal and child health, develop school readiness, promote economic self-sufficiency, reduce abuse and neglect, and address substance use disorders. During home visits, nurses and other professionals visit with women, families, and children—some as early as pregnancy to promote positive birth outcomes—to provide parent education and support, ultimately promoting child health, well-being, learning, and development.