How to Implement

In recognition of the needs of all families, a universal, early intervention parent support plan should be included as part of community strategies to improve outcomes for families.  With community partners, a program can develop and implement a First Steps Georgia plan to provide universal, early intervention services and support for families by:

1. Identifying a universal target population and service delivery location(s);

2. Ensuring access for parents of all ages and all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds by

a) Connecting with community partners that will provide access to families;

b) Establishing referral partner agreements;

c) Establishing consistent referral process practices; and

d) Establishing a tracking system for referrals;

3. Identifying key needs of families participating in the program and identifying community resources to meet those needs;

4. Completing all documentation including state required data entry and all essential records required by First Steps Georgia; and

5. Coordinating within the Georgia Home Visiting Program, where available.

For more information on how to implement First Steps in your community, please contact Kate Teague, First Steps Georgia Coordinator, at kate.teague@uga.edu.