Support for Parents in the Early Years
Category: Client Story
June 10, 2024
Guidance in the Early Years
As a parent, it’s easy to feel bombarded with questions, anxieties and emotions. But where do you turn for reliable information and support, especially if you're facing challenges? Those early years of raising a child have so many firsts: first tooth, first food, first steps, first words. Any Baby Can’s Parents as Teachers program is for any parent who could use extra support while raising a child age zero to five.
Finding Support in Parenthood
Ashley found Any Baby Can while she was pregnant. She joined Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP), a program for first-time pregnant mothers. Ashley's dedicated NFP nurse was a source of comfort and guidance throughout her pregnancy during the Covid-19 pandemic. Her nurse was always available for answer questions she may have and referred her to a childbirth and parenting class.
Once Ashley and her daughter graduated from NFP, her nurse suggested they check out the Parents as Teachers (PAT) program. PAT works with families until their child is aged five, getting them ready for school and building healthy habits.
Learning in Parenting
Connected to a Certified Parent Educator, Ashley got the chance to learn so much about parenting and child development. Our Parents as Teachers program partners with parents to set a solid foundation that shapes their child's future. This video explains what a Certified Parent Educator is.
“I just love learning how a child’s brain develops! That’s my favorite part of working with Amy [her Parent Educator]. I’m learning what drives these little brains and it explains so much,” reflects Ashley
The Certified Parent Educator helped Ashley understand her daughter's behavior. In addition, she gave her practical tips and hands-on activities to promote healthy development.
Connection and Counseling
The program also offers group events where Ashley can connect with other moms and their children. Ashley appreciated this opportunity to meet other parents, even if it pushed her outside of her comfort zone. She likes learning from other parents' experiences. And she's enjoyed watching her daughter interact with other kids.
“I feel happier and makes it so much easier to parent. I have had so many mountains and so many barriers try to stop me, but I never gave up. I hope to inspire my daughter because she inspires me,” says Ashley
Additionally, Ashley participated in counseling sessions. She found it to be beneficial in improving her mental health and overall well-being. She noted how thoughtful and observant her therapist is, and she looks forward to their sessions.
Any Baby Can empowers mothers to not only be great parents but to also reach their own personal goals. The program encouraged Ashley to complete her GED. She's now studying psychology at Austin Community College where she’ll get to learn more about the brain!
“You cannot truly understand a person’s perspective unless you’ve been there yourself. It’s the reason I want to do this. I want to break the stigma around mental health,” says Ashley.
Professional Guidance
Whether you’re a first-time mom seeking advice or a parent raising young kids, Any Baby Can can help! We provide a network of professionals and resources to help you navigate their childhood with confidence.
If you’re interested and would like to learn more, consider attending a free event to see firsthand the benefits that Any Baby Can has to offer. Learn about eligibility for Nurse-Family Partnership and the Parents as Teachers program.
RELATED RESOURCES
Parents are a child’s first teacher! Make the most of the early years with a parent educator.
Any Baby Can is a partner for families when times get tough. Learn how we support parents and children to achieve their best possible future.
Like most skills, your parenting improves through effort, practice and learning.
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