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Pregnancy and becoming a parent for the first time can be overwhelming. With new changes come new worries, questions and stress. H.A.N.D.S. is available to answer questions and provide parents with support in developing a parent-child relationship.
Families receive information and learn about community resources for new parents. Some will receive support through home visitation. H.A.N.D.S. provides home visits to first-time, new and expectant moms and/or dads. Participation in H.A.N.D.S. can begin during pregnancy or anytime before a child is 3 months old. This service is voluntary and at no cost to families.
Families who participate in H.A.N.D.S. have fewer premature infants, low birth weight babies (5 lbs, 9 oz.), very low birth weight babies (3 lbs, 5 oz) and developmental delays.
Parents also reported improvements in: home safety, coping skills, support systems, stress levels, discipline techniques and anger management skills.
If you are interested in learning more about this program for first-time and multi-gravida mothers, contact the Graves County Health Department at (270) 247-3553.
I have enjoyed this program so much! What I have learned from my HANDS nurse has been very beneficial. I have enjoyed breastfeeding and my babies love it too! We’re involved in both WIC and HANDS which has been a huge help for my family. I enjoyed the support from the beginning with my pregnancy and after birth. I recommend this program to anyone expecting a baby!
-Alyssa
