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  • Kowhai Consulting

The Benefits of Family Start For Families In New Zealand

Updated: Aug 10, 2023


Family Start is providing vital support to families in New Zealand. We provide voluntary home-based support to parents and children up to the age of five in need because there are many benefits to this type of parenting programme.


Family Start Benefits


There are many benefits to the Family Start program for families in New Zealand. The program provides support and resources to help families thrive. It also helps families connect with other families in their community. Here are some of the benefits of Family Start:


1. Empowering Families with Support and Resources

Family Start is committed to empowering families with the necessary support and resources. This includes everything from parenting advice to health and safety guidelines. The program ensures that families have access to the tools and information they need to create a nurturing environment for their children.


2. Fostering Community Connections

One of the unique aspects of Family Start is its emphasis on community connections. The program encourages families to connect with other families in their community, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. This not only enriches the family's social life but also creates a network of support that can be invaluable in times of need.


3. Advocacy Skills for Families

Family Start goes beyond providing support and resources; it empowers families to advocate for themselves and their children. The program helps parents understand their rights and responsibilities, equipping them with the skills to seek the best resources and services for their needs.


4. Navigating the Child Welfare System

The child welfare system can be complex and daunting. Family Start helps families navigate this system effectively. The program provides families with the knowledge and skills they need to understand the system, ensuring they can make informed decisions that are in the best interest of their children.


5. Access to Services and Programs

Family Start is committed to helping families access the services and programs they need to meet their goals. This includes everything from educational programs to health services. The program works closely with families to understand their unique needs and helps them access the appropriate services.


At Kowhai Consulting, we support the Family Start initiative and go above and beyond for our clients within the program. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your family through Family Start.


How Family Start works


If you're a parent in New Zealand, you may be wondering what Family Start is and how it can benefit your family. Family Start is a government-funded program that helps families with children under the age of five. It provides free home visits from trained professionals, who can offer advice and support on everything from parenting to nutrition to health and safety.


The program is voluntary, so you can decide whether or not it's right for your family. If you do choose to participate, you'll be assigned a Family Start worker who will visit you at least once a week. These visits usually last around an hour, and they're an opportunity for you to get tailored advice and support specifically for your family's needs.


Family Start has been shown to improve outcomes for children, including reducing rates of hospitalization and improving cognitive development. It can also help ease parents' stress levels, which can have a positive impact on the whole family. If you're interested in finding out more about Family Start, you can make a referral for yourself or a loved one through Kowhai Consulting, talk to your GP or contact your local Family Start provider.


How to get your child enrolled in Family Start


If you're a family in New Zealand, you may be wondering how to get your child enrolled in Family Start. Here's a quick guide on how to do so.


First, you'll need to find a Family Start provider near you. You can do this by searching online or contacting your local government office. Once you've found a provider, you'll need to fill out an application form, kowhais referral form makes the application form very easy and quick to fill out.


Next, you'll need to provide some documentation, such as your contact details and your child's date of birth etc... Once your application is complete, the provider will contact you to arrange an initial assessment. This assessment will help determine whether your family is eligible for Family Start.


If you're eligible, the provider will work with you to develop a support plan. This plan will detail the support that Family Start can provide for your family. It's important to note that Family Start is not a benefits programme - it's designed to help families thrive, not just get by.


Once your support plan is in place, the provider will start working with you and your family. This may involve home visits, group activities or one-on-one support. The aim of Family Start is to help families build strong foundations and create lasting change


Why is Family Start beneficial for New Zealand families?


There are a number of reasons why family start is beneficial for New Zealand families. Perhaps the most obvious reason is that it provides families with an opportunity to bond and form strong attachments with their children from a young age. It also gives parents the chance to learn about their child's development and how to best support them as they grow.


Another key benefit of family start is that it can help to reduce stress levels within the family. This is because parents are able to take some time out from work to focus on their family life, and they are also able to access support and advice from professionals if they need it. This can all help to create a more positive and relaxed home environment for everyone involved.


Ultimately, family start can be hugely beneficial for both parents and children. It can give families the chance to connect with each other, while also providing parents with the opportunity to learn more about their children and how best to support them. This can all lead to a happier and more well-rounded family life.



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