Desperate To Improve Her Family Life…

Emilia Padilla, mother of three was desperate to improve her family life so she contacted FIRST 5. With the guidance and support of her FIRST 5 Family Partner, Emilia immediately enrolled in an 8-week parenting course provided by Catholic Charities. She also attended evening English as a Second Language (ESL) classes 3 times per week, where her children received high-quality childcare. Emilia was also able to enroll her son in preschool and was given a car seat, as well as referred to the FIRST 5 Health Mobile for free preventive dental screenings.

Emilia’s FIRST 5 Family Partner administered a developmental screening with her son, uncovering concerns about his language and communication abilities which were causing problems at school. As a result, the Family Partner consulted with a behavior specialist from Via Services, a FIRST 5 partner agency, to seek school and home developmental and behavioral supports.

The FIRST 5 home visitor focused on helping Emilia establish more clear rules, structure, and family literacy practices at home. Soon Emilia’s son’s preschool teacher reported that his behavior had almost immediately and completely turned around — he was doing well and following the classroom rules.

“Through my work with [my home visitor], I learned about setting rules, how to play with my kids, and how to help them learn. I am using these strategies and have seen positive changes in my children,” said Emilia.