Being a parent is not an easy job. There is always more to learn about how to be the best parent you can be. Below you will find free resources and education for new parents.
General Parenting Resources
HealthyChildren.org is supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Check out their free resources to help you learn how to be the best parent you can be.
Developmental Milestones
As your child ages, there are certain skills or behaviors that they should be able to do. These are called developmental milestones. Learn more about developmental milestones:
- Developmental milestones can include skills such as taking a first step, smiling for the first time, and waving goodbye. Children reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak, act, and move. Learn more.
- If you are worried that your baby is not meeting milestones or doing the things they should be for their age, here are some ideas of what to do next. A baby’s brain grows very fast in the first few years of life. The sooner you get them help they may need, the better.
Support with Developmental Delays
If your child is experiencing developmental disabilities, visit My Life, My Community. This is a tool from the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. It helps people with developmental disabilities and their families answer basic questions about services and supports.
Information on Taxes and Tax Credits for Children
- Have children? You may be eligible for a tax credit. Learn more about your tax credit options, including the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Credit for Low Income Individuals (CLI).
- Need help with preparing and filing your taxes? Learn more about tax refunds and help for filing tax returns from the Virginia Department of Social Services.
Information on Foster Care and Adoption
Interested in adoption? Learn more about adoption from the Virginia Department of Social Services.
Interested in becoming a foster parent? Learn more about foster care from the Virginia Department of Social Services.
Information on Child Care
Need help paying for child care? Learn more about available support for child care from the Virginia Department of Social Services and the Child Care Subsidy Program from Virginia Department of Education.
Looking to find a reliable child care provider? Visit the Virginia Department of Education’s Childcare VA to help search for child care options, learn more about paying for child care, and what the benefits are of using a licensed child care facility, as well as helpful questions to consider when figuring out what the best choice for your family is.
Information on Medicaid
Need health care insurance? Visit the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services’ webpage on Medicaid to find out if you are eligible and apply.