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, please contact Nicole Copeland, First Steps Georgia Coordinator, at ncopeland@uga.edu.