Resources for Socialization Activities

In addition to providing staff development and support, you should ensure that home visitors have adequate resources to conduct socializations. You might need to advocate for increased funding or the allocation of additional staff resources to ensure high-quality experiences. Consider engaging community partners for additional support. They can offer expertise, lead family discussions, or support family-child interactions.

Resources that enhance the delivery of socialization services include the following:

• A facility that can be used on a regular basis at flexible times and meets state licensing requirements as well as 45 CFR §1302.47(b)(1)(ii) through (viii). It should be safe and hygienic. It should have facilities for toileting and hand-washing; refrigeration for snacks, drinks, and breast milk; and heat. It should accommodate children and adults with disabilities; be warm, inviting, and comfortable; and be conducive to individual and group play and learning experiences for young children and their parents.
• Multiple staff members who can manage groups and conduct group-based developmental experiences, support individual children and parents during the group process, and provide child care for siblings of participant children when needed
• Staff and/or volunteers who can provide translation for children and families
• Staff dedicated to supporting male involvement
• Staff with flexible schedules so that socializations can occur at optimal times for families
• Toys and materials for multiple age groups that are developmentally appropriate, easily accessible, and user friendly for parents and children alike and that reflect the cultures of participant families
• Equipment that is developmentally appropriate, in good condition, and designed to support child and family development and interactions (e.g., furniture and equipment for family-style eating; spaces for breastfeeding; shelves, containers, or baskets for toys and other child materials; diapering and toileting materials and equipment; safe, durable, and appropriately challenging play equipment; adult-sized chairs, couches, or gliders)
• Meals or snacks for children and families that are developmentally appropriate, nutritious, and reflective of families’ cultures (including infant formula)
• Transportation/access to transportation (e.g., bus tokens) for families who otherwise could not attend

Last Updated: May 22, 2023