Family Engagement Specialist

Position Summary:  This position is responsible for conducting weekly home visits with assigned enrolled Early Head Start families to support parents in their role as their child’s first teacher and as learners themselves; to engage parents in steps to improve their overall wellbeing; and to help infants and toddlers develop skills foe success in their current environment and in the future, in school and life; and continuing family support as children transition into a Head Start classroom.

Essential Functions of the Job:

1. Implement the Early Head Start home-based program in compliance with Head Start Performance Standards.
2. Conducts 90 minute weekly home visits with assigned families, planning activities and experiences specific to the developmental level of each child and family.
3. Follows the “flow sheet”, developed according to EPSDT guidelines, for timely completion of screenings, assessments, well-baby exams, the transition process, etc. Provides documentation of services to the EHS Data Specialist for entry into the data system.
4. Assists families in accessing transportation to appointments, occasionally providing that transportation. This is not in place of home visit.
5. Develops a lesson plan with input from the parents identifying developmentally appropriate experiences, ICP or IFSP goal-related activities that support the individual growth and development of their child, and school readiness. Signed copies must be turned in to the EHS Child and Family Services Manager for review.
6. Supports parents in developing skills that promote their child’s social skills and emotional wellbeing using PBIS.
7. Develops a program of experiences and activities that support and enhance the parental role as the principal influence in a child’s education and development. 
8. Promotes parental involvement in curriculum planning, program governance and other activities in the program and in the community.
9. Works with pregnant women to promote healthy pregnancies and provides education regarding pre-natal care, post-partum care – including maternal depression, and infant/toddler development.
10. Facilitates, purchases necessary supplies and materials, and participates in socializations monthly as assigned. (see attachment for procedures)
11. Completes the family partnership agreement to identify family development goals in collaboration with parents, promoting parent and family engagement that leads to improving the families overall wellbeing.
12. Assists families in making progress toward their identified goals by educating them about available resources and making referrals when necessary. 
13. Assists families in securing safe and healthy childcare environments that meet all local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
14. Provides requested information to assist the EHS Data Specialist in the completion of the PIR.
15. Assists with recruitment.
16. Participates in staff development and training opportunities in order to obtain and/or expand necessary education and skills, and serves on assigned committees. 
17. Attends staff meetings as required. 
18. Works with other staff to maintain a safe, healthy, clean and inviting work environment.