Growing Strong

Healthy Beginnings. A healthy pregnancy is the first step in a healthy child.  Way to Grow offers culturally appropriate classes designed for different ethnic groups.  These classes are taught in English, Spanish, Somali, and Hmong.  Prenatal education covers information on fetal development, nutrition, delivery options, medical interventions, newborn health and safety, breastfeeding, and post-partum care. 

Health, Nutrition & Safety.  In the home, Family Educators provide parents with health, nutrition and safety information through a curriculum designed by a public health nurse.  Topics include infant sleeping and car seat safety, well-child immunizations, and lead poisoning.  Family Educators answer questions about regular check-ups and help parents gain access to healthcare.  They also help observe children and direct parents to medical services when needed.

Health Family Seminars. To provide information to larger audiences, Way to Grow hosts seminars where experts educate parents on specific topics.  The Healthy Baby series continues the education begun in the prenatal classes by providing information on caring for newborns.  Other special events address lead poisoning and asthma.

Partnerships.  Way to Grow partners with numerous organizations to ensure families receive a comprehensive set of services.  For health programs, key partners include:

• Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC)
• Minnesota Visiting Nurses Association (MVNA)
• Northpoint Health and Wellness Center
• Child and Teen Checkup
• Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
• Sustainable Resource Center
• Twin Cities Healthy Start