Home visitation programs are one of parenting’s best-kept secrets. These evidence-based, hands-on training programs promote healthy child development and provide parenting support tailored to your family’s unique needs. Studies show that children enrolled in home visitation programs are more prepared to start school, score higher on reading and math assessments, and require fewer remedial education placements. Parents taking part in home visitation programs also benefit. They are more likely to take an active role in their child’s education, develop a deeper understanding of child development milestones and establish safe, healthy environments for their children.
Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths and misinformation about home visitation programs that prevent most parents from taking advantage of the help and support they provide. Most parents have either never heard of a home visitation program before or if they have, chances are that they hold a number of misconceptions about who these programs help and how they work. Below, we’ve debunked some of the most common myths about home visitation programs:
MYTH: Home visitation programs are for families that have something “wrong” with them or are in crisis.TRUTH: The image of home visitation programs as a resource available only to troubled families isn’t remotely true. Although these programs serve a diverse community population that sometimes includes families in crisis, home visitation programs are open to all families regardless of any difficulties they may or may not be having. Ultimately, the goal of home visitation programs is to provide a system of support for ALL parents to help them with the numerous different milestones they will encounter those first few years in their child's life.MYTH: Home visitation programs are for families who are low income.TRUTH: No need to worry about how much money you have or how much money you make. Child Crisis Arizona’s home visitation program is part of a larger statewide initiative to improve early childhood education in Arizona. As a result, this program is free for any family with children birth-5 years old, no matter your income level.MYTH: Home visitation programs are a sneaky way for DCS to monitor parents! Beware!TRUTH: This common misconception about home visitation scares parents and makes many of them hesitant to enroll. Luckily, there’s no truth to it. Far from being spies, parent educators work hard to become true partners to the parents they work with, providing education, resources, and support to tailored to each family's needs. Although home visitation educators are required to report child abuse to DCS the same way a child’s teacher or doctor would, these programs are in no way affiliated with DCS. Plus, participation in-home visitation programs is also 100% voluntary, so you can start or stop receiving this support any time you choose.Ready to enroll? Child Crisis Arizona offers a no-cost home visitation program for all families with children aged birth-5! To learn more, visit our home visitation program page online or call us directly at 480-304-9440.
