A dynamic and interactive system of supports
has been put in place to respond to the complex needs of families with pregnant
women or children between 0 - 4 years of age. Initially, a Family Support
Advocate (FSA) works with the family to develop an Individualized Family
Support Plan, and to enhance the parent's knowledge and understanding of early
childhood development and parenting. If the parent is working or going to
school, the plan may include placing the infant or toddler in developmentally
appropriate child care. By developing a trusting relationship with the family,
and by utilizing Part C and other community resources, the FSA provides
comprehensive case management services to assure that the child and family are
accessing all the support systems necessary to succeed. Coordinators and
Specialists utilize their expertise to guide the FSAs and the families. This
complex and multidimensional process both influences and responds to a number
of external systems, including the University of Kansas Medical Center, the
Head Start Bureau, and local and state funding sources.
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