Title: FCS Supporting New Parents

Relevance: Becoming a parent presents a multitude of challenges, primarily revolving around not knowing what to expect, exhaustion, identity shifts, relationship changes, and anxieties about your baby's well-being. These experiences can take a toll on a parent’s mental and emotional health, requiring adjustment and support. Responsive, supportive caregiving during this period not only strengthens the parent-child bond but also helps children develop secure attachments. Research from over 100 academic studies shows that children with secure attachments are more likely to develop strong social skills, self-esteem, and healthy peer relationships. They are also more resilient in the face of adversity, including poverty, family instability, parental stress, and depression. 

Response: To help new parents navigate this critical time, the Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Extension at the University of Kentucky and Kentucky State University provided support through education and celebration. During the 2024–25 fiscal year, eleven FCS agents across Kentucky hosted parenting workshops that supported both expectant parents and those with young children. 

These events brought together a network of local organizations and community partners—including Head Start, First Steps, Community Health Centers, Family Resource Youth Services Centers, , UK Healthcare, and local police and fire departments. Together, they offered education on maternity, prenatal care, and positive parenting strategies, while also celebrating parents' roles and efforts.

Result: Across the 11 counties, the program served 313 families. Participants received essential resources such as car seats and diapers, and gained access to local services including maternity education, health screenings, and infant immunization schedules. Additional supports included harm reduction education, parenting classes, and information on supplemental nutrition programs for women, infants, and children. All participants reported learning about new local resources and feeling more confident in their parenting roles.

Public Value Statement:
When you support Extension family programming, you strengthen parents—helping them raise resilient children and build stronger, healthier communities.