WHAT BABYFACE IS:
BabyFACE uses the
Parents As Teachers model, which has served more than 10,000 American Indian
families in over 100 Tribal communities in the past 20 years. The emphasis is on health, development and school
readiness through culturally responsive parenting education, family support,
and linkages with community resources. Evaluations
of the model in Tribal communities show that it “…levels the playing field for
American Indian children entering kindergarten and results in fewer special
education placements when children reach school age.” Parents As Teachers trained and certified
parent educators provide the following model components.
Personal Visits
Families receive a visit in their home bi-weekly. Home-based educators partner with parents, and other caregivers, and help them to be the first and most important teachers of their children. Each visit includes: age-specific information about parenting topics and child development, and an educational activity between the parent and the child that is often adapted to emphasize the local culture and language.
Family Circles
Families are invited to a group connection at least once a month. Families hear speakers; make books and toys for their children that include the local culture and language; and do parent-child activities.
Developmental Screenings
Children’s developmental progress is checked at least two times a year. Parents are included in this look at their child’s development, because they know their child best. Once a year each child’s hearing and vision is checked. The parent educator also makes sure that parents have gotten all of the necessary immunizations for their child
Resource Network
If learning or health concerns are found, parent educators help the family get additional services so the child will be able to reach their full potential. They work closely with Tribal, health, State and other community agencies and organizations to support families.