SO, WHAT DOES A HOME VISIT LOOK LIKE?

Parents are usually concerned how a home visit is conducted, so the following describes the five parts of a home visit: 

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GREETING AND FOLLOW-UP : When the Family Educator arrives, natural greetings occur with the parent and child. This is the time to catch up on news, inquire about follow-up from the previous visit, and to set the stage for parent-child interaction.

NEW INFORMATION : In this part, the Family Educator will share information that has been individualized for each family, according to their interests and needs. There can also be discussion on locating and utilizing community services to further family goals. The child may or may not be present on this part of the visit, if so, a low supervision activity may be planned to keep him/her engaged while the adults converse and share ideas.

PARENT AND CHILD ACTIVITY: This is the heart of the home visit. The parent and child work together on the planned activities. Since all siblings are included, the Family Educator may assist with other children while the parent engages with the enrolled child. The Family Educator may also facilitate the play and activity so that maximum interaction can take place between parent and child.

PLANNING: After the activity is completed, the following week’s activities are planned. The parent and Family Educator discuss ideas using family and child goals, the child’s developmental stage, and easy curriculum to format the lesson plan. Needed materials are identified and assigned. Parents are encouraged to utilize common items in the home to use during home visits.

EVALUATION: At the closing of the home visit, an evaluation is completed that includes input from both parent and Family Educator. Follow-through activities that can be completed during the week are encouraged to reinforce the child’s emerging new skills. Lessons plans are signed and goodbyes are exchanged.