It Takes a Village - My Personal Experience as a Home Visitor

Home visiting programs are changing our world in a positive way, and their impact on parents and their children is huge. Being a home visitor for just shy of two years, I was able to work with families to give newborns and preschool children the best start in life by helping pregnant mothers, parents and caregivers in their homes. I supported families by providing screenings, referrals, advice and guidance with navigating other programs and services in our community. 

There is no blueprint to parenting. It is challenging and can sometimes make you feel like a failure. But in reality, you are just human. Having all those feelings makes us more caring parents, and having someone in our corner like a home visiting professional makes us the best parents we can be. The best part for me about being a home visitor was that I was able to form trusting relationships with every family I became a part of. Whether the parent was prenatal or was a single parent of five children, I was there for her and encouraged her in every step she took.

Making goals for the parents I worked with was a big part of the program. We love our children and want them to strive and succeed, but we can’t forget about you, the parent. If it wasn’t for you, there wouldn’t be a child to work with. Home visitation programs want to make sure parents have the support they need to make this new adventure in life positive and empowering. I was able to build strong relationships that led to lasting benefits for every family I worked with. We always hear the saying it takes a village. Well home visitation is just that…your village.

Megan Hope is a parenting specialist with ParentPlus, where she provides everyday advice and support to help improve the lives of children and families in her community.