Family Care: Welcoming all new parents

BY DANIELLE ROBERTSON AND JESSENIA RODRIGUEZ

FAMILY & MWR NEW PARENT SUPPORT PROGRAM

Are you expecting? For first-time parents who have questions or concerns about parenting, Fort Bliss New Parent Support Program is here to help!

The Fort Bliss New Parent Support Program’s primary focus is to offer parenting education, information and referral while helping to support the strengthening of military Families. This program is free and offered voluntarily to military Families, single-parent Soldiers, Active Reservists, and retirees, who are pregnant or have children ages 0 to 3 years. The New Parent Support Program is located inside the Army Community Service (ACS), which falls under the Family Advocacy Program and is made up of a team of licensed professionals who can assist you in all areas of a child’s life.

The program offers several services to meet your needs, such as Baby Boot Camp, home visits, and playgroups – that meet twice a week in different areas both on- and off-post locations for children ages 0 to 4 years. Playgroups are provided for your child to learn how to interact, socialize and play along while helping Families build a support network within their military community. If you are interested in playgroups, like us on Facebook at Fort Bliss New Parent Support Playgroup, there you will find an updated calendar every month. Baby Boot Camp class helps expecting parents get ready for their new baby, this class takes you through it all! This fun, all-day interactive class is offered every other month. Our next upcoming class will be Nov. 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. In class, you’ll be able to get answers to questions you might have on pregnancy and the newborn stages of life. If you find yourself needing extra assistance with your children, a home visitor can come to you in the comfort of your home and work hands on with you. The home visitor will help guide you as your child reaches growth and developmental milestones. The Fort Bliss New Parent Support Program wants to make sure all Soldiers and their Families have the right tools for successful parenting. If interested in the program services, visit ACS located at 2494 Ricker Road or call 915-568-9129.