Parenting is one of the most important, rewarding, and sometimes challenging roles a person can take on. At Healthy Families Upper Peninsula (HFUP), we are here to support families every step of the way. Our goal is to come alongside parents to provide guidance, resources, and encouragement, helping them navigate the parenting journey with confidence.
What is Healthy Families Upper Peninsula?
HFUP is a voluntary, family-centered program dedicated to strengthening the parent-child relationship, ensuring healthy child growth and development, and fostering positive parenting practices. We understand that every family is unique, and our approach is tailored to meet the individual needs of each parent and child, creating a strong foundation for a child’s future success.
Through regular home visits, our trained professionals offer personalized support, helping parents develop nurturing, positive relationships with their babies. At each visit, our home visitors provide valuable information and resources on topics such as:
- Child Development: Understanding your child’s growth milestones and how to support their emotional, physical, and cognitive development from infancy onward.
- Infant Care & Health: Guidance on newborn care, including tips on feeding, sleep routines, and keeping your baby healthy. Parents will also receive education on the importance of regular check-ups and vaccinations.
- Parenting Skills: Support and coaching in building a nurturing, responsive relationship with your child. We work with parents to foster positive discipline strategies and create a loving, safe environment for their children.
- Community Connection: We help families connect to additional resources, events, and programs in their communities that support the health and well-being of parents and children. This might include early childhood education programs, support groups, or health services.
Why Is HFUP Important?
Research has shown that the quality of the relationship between a parent and their baby is a fundamental factor in determining the child’s overall health, well-being, school readiness, and future success. Healthy, supportive interactions between parents and children during the early years lay the foundation for a child’s future ability to learn, manage emotions, and build relationships.
HFUP is affiliated with Healthy Families America (HFA), a national initiative focused on promoting positive parenting and healthy child development. Our program is designed to help parents be their child’s first and most important teacher, right from the beginning.
How It Works
Participation in HFUP is completely voluntary, and families can begin receiving home visits during pregnancy or after the baby is born. Our trained home visitors offer ongoing support, with visits occurring at a frequency that meets the family’s needs. This support continues for as long as the family feels it is helpful, ensuring they have the tools and confidence to parent effectively.
Get Involved
If you are expecting or have a newborn and would like to learn more about the HFUP program, or if you’re interested in enrolling, please contact the LMAS Health Department. We are here to help you and your family thrive.
Parenting can be challenging, but with the right support, it can also be one of the most fulfilling experiences of your life. Let us walk with you on this important journey.
For more information or to sign up for HFUP, email the program’s Director – Kristen Christiansen.
Kristen Christiansen: kchristiansen@lmasdhd.org
