Children born to low-income, first-time mothers who received home nursing visits showed increased mental health, stronger social and emotional development and academic gains, according to researchers who analyzed the impact of the Nurse-Family Partnership program, one of the largest home visiting programs in the country.
The research team that conducted the analysis was led by James Heckman, a Nobel Laureate in economics and professor and director of the Center for Economics of Human Development at the University of Chicago. The study, titled “Nurse-Family Partnership: Parental education and early health result in better child outcomes,” was released Monday.
“This study of Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) shows that parenting early in life very much matters, and that voluntary programs that work closely with parents to strengthen parenting skills and provide early health can make a difference,” the study states. Researchers analyzed information on the health and well-being of mothers and children from pregnancy up to age 12. The study includes a sample size of 1,138 participants. The study analyzed outcomes for children who participated in the program, compared to children who were not part of the program but received some services at the same ages.
To read more of Ashley Hopkinson's article, please click here.
Comments (1)