Most new parents are eager to learn how to care for their babies.
Yet, many don't have an understanding of child development and the support necessary in caring for a child. As a result, in 1993, there were 2.9 million cases of suspected child maltreatment in the United States. Each day, three children die from abuse and neglect. Numerous studies indicate that home visitation programs are one effective way to prevent or decrease many potential hazards to child's development, including child abuse, failure to thrive and lack of school readiness. The institute is sponsored by UW-Extension Family Living Programs, which received a national grant to conduct a home visitation program in Walworth County serving families deemed in need of education and support.