Services - Home Visitation & Outreach - Infant/Preschool Wellness Program - Information for Professionals

1. What is the Infant Preschool Wellness program?

The Infant Preschool Wellness Program is a Community Action Program for Children (CAPC) funding by the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Red Deer and District Family and Community Support Services (FCSS). It is a prevention and early intervention program that supports Parents of children 0-6 years of age through in- home visitation and Drop in Parent Groups. Parents are connected to community supports and services to assist them in increasing their family function. Services are provided to those living in the city of Red Deer and are voluntary, free and confidential.

2. What Does the Infant Preschool Wellness Program offer?

Outreach Workers are trained to provide services to children and families living in conditions of risk and can meet regularly in the family home or in the community. Staff work in partnership with parents who want to learn more about raising healthy children and provide information and referrals based on individual needs. Outreach Workers support families to set personal and family goals, increase their knowledge of parenting skills and how to provide a safe and supportive environment for their children. During home visits parents will learn to understand their child's health and changing needs and be better connected to community resources such as employment or education depending on the parents' needs. ESL clients will be supported with services in English or in their preferred language in partnership with a volunteer interpreter.

Drop-in parent support groups encourage natural conversations among parents concerning a variety of parenting related topics. This networking opportunity between parents will decrease isolation and expand community supports. Childcare is provided for children to play and learn. Transportation to and from the groups can be provided and a healthy snack is offered to the parents and children.

3. Who is eligible for Infant Preschool Wellness Outreach?

Families with a child 0-6 years of age and living in conditions of risk are the target group for IPWP. Those families who are more likely to experience poverty, single or teen parenthood, abuse or neglect, poor health and nutrition, developmental delays, social, emotional behavioral problems or family breakdown are encourage to participate in the program.

4. What is the screening process?

Referrals can be made over the telephone or in person. An intake form is completed are questions are asked around risk factors and presenting concerns. Families are then put on a waitlist for services and wait times vary depending on staff availability. Parents are invited to attend the Drop in Parent Support Groups at their earliest convenience. Those who do not qualify are referred to other community programs that better fit their presenting needs. Parents are welcome to contact the Infant Preschool Wellness Program on their own or can be referred by anyone including: Public Health Nurses, Service providers, family or friends.

5. Who do I contact to make a referral?

For more information on the Infant Preschool Wellness Program or to make a referral, please call us at 403-309-8214, by email to lsmith@fsca.ca or visit us at FSCA.