Teen pregnancy and parenting are complex issues that require multifaceted initiatives.
Statistics indicate that the teen pregnancy rate in the United States is decreasing.
This improvement can be credited to the comprehensive approach that many organizations use to address teen pregnancy prevention and parenting. In order to continue in this trend, professionals and volunteers in this area should remain informed of best practices for preventing adolescent pregnancy and aiding teen parents. Listed below are brief descriptions of best practices for child welfare organizations' teen pregnancy prevention and parenting programs. Youths should receive an assessment of their risk for premature sexual activity and other high-risk activities in conjunction with the health assessment that takes place as they come into care, or within thirty days of entry into care. Assessments should be repeated at various intervals while the youth is in care.