Good News

Study Shows Effectiveness of HFNY in Promoting Child Development and Reducing Child Abuse

Posted on: Tuesday, December 14, 2010

A recent study of the Healthy Families New York (HFNY) Program, conducted by New York State, showed the program to be effective in preventing child maltreatment and promoting positive child development. HFNY is a voluntary home visiting program for new and expectant parents, offering in-home services until the child starts school or head start. HFNY operates in 37 high-needs communities in New York, including Schenectady.

The study showed that pregnant women enrolled in HFNY were about half as likely as the control group to deliver low-birth weight babies. The earlier pregnant women joined HFNY, the better their birth outcomes. Children in the HFNY group were more likely to participate in a gifted program at school, and less likely to repeat a grade or receive special education services than children in the control group. Additionally, mothers participating in HFNY were more likely to endorse appropriate limit setting strategies, use parenting strategies that stimulate children’s cognitive skills and use non-violent discipline strategies. HFNY produced a significant reduction in the number of acts of serious and very serious physical abuse.

A $240,000 grant from The Schenectady Foundation is enabling HFNY to reach more families. For more information about Healthy Families New York or the study, visit www.healthyfamiliesnewyork.org.

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