A Families First Specialist goes into the family’s home for approximately 6-10 hours per week, initially. This may vary based on family needs, referral source and concerns, and individual scheduling.

On average, the Specialist is in the home for 10-12 weeks and becomes an ally of the parents and a mentor to the family, teaching proven methods of replacing unwanted behaviors with desirable ones. Parents are taught how to maintain discipline without anger or violence. Accountability, positive social skills, effective communication, and ways to effectively set and maintain boundaries are also taught.

The Specialist uses positive reinforcement, modeling, role playing, and other methods that are designed specifically to instill effective and lasting, parenting and communication skills, while also teaching complementary social skills to the children to help reduce unwanted behaviors.

At the conclusion of the in-home period, the Specialist continues to be a part of the family's life by being available 24 hours a day for the next year. The Specialist also conducts evaluations at regular intervals following the intervention to track success and to identify possible challenges.

Families First is available to the public and fees are determined on a sliding scale basis. Some insurance companies and State agencies also provide coverage. For more information, contact Wayne Arner at warner@youthvillage.org or call (801) 272-9980.