Description
The evidenced-based Exchange Parent Aide Model is a family home-visitation model. Parent Aides are trained, professionally supervised individuals (paid and volunteer) who provide supportive and educational, in-home services to families with at least one child age birth through 12 years that is at-risk of child abuse and neglect. Exchange Parent Aides act as mentors and provide intensive support, information, and modeling of effective parenting — all in the home of the family. Services are strength-based and family centered.
Services begin with an Initial Needs Assessment (INA) describing family dynamics, patterns of coping, abuse histories, and immediate needs. From the INA, a family treatment plan focusing on the programÂ’s four goal areas is developed: Child safety, Problem solving skills, Parenting skills, and Social support. Families are also matched with a professionally trained and supervised Parent Aide who provides weekly home visits. The program standard is 1 to 2 home visits per week, with each lasting 1 to 2 hours. Telephone contact occurs between home visits. Parents have telephone access to professional staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Recommended duration of the program is 9-12 months with the average being 11 months. Exchange Parent Aide has materials available in English and Spanish.
Assure Child Safety; Improve Parenting Skills; Improve Problem Solving Skills; Enhance Social Supports
