Parenting & Child Development Support
Parenting a newborn is hard work—and no one’s meant to do it alone. Utah offers compassionate, hands-on programs that bring support directly to you. Whether you want help understanding your baby’s development, a listening ear, guidance from a visiting nurse, or a safe place to take a breather, these services are designed to make your life easier. Most are free or low-cost and available across the state. You deserve help that feels human, local, and nonjudgmental—because caring for your baby starts with caring for you, too.
Quick Links
Help Me Grow Utah
Help Me Grow Utah is a free, statewide service that supports expectant parents and families with children up to age 8. No matter your question—big or small—the staff will connect you to reliable information, community resources, and activities to help your child thrive. Service is available in English and Spanish, with no eligibility requirements or fees.
What They Offer
- Personal Support – A dedicated care coordinator helps answer questions about pregnancy, parenting, or child development.
- Developmental Screenings – Free tools to track your baby’s growth and wellness, plus parent mental health screenings during and after pregnancy.
- Activity Ideas & Tips – Fun, age-appropriate suggestions to help your child learn and grow, plus ways to strengthen your bond.
- Resource Connections – Quick referrals to services like parenting classes, early intervention, mental health support, and more.
How to Get Help
Call or Text: 801-691-5322
Website: helpmegrowutah.org
Service Area: Statewide.
Why It Matters
Parenting comes with questions—and sometimes worries. Help Me Grow Utah offers a wise, caring friend to turn to for support and answers, without judgment. Whether you want to check if your child is developing on track, find new ways to support their growth, or just need someone to listen, they’re there to help. It’s a one-stop resource to help you feel more confident and connected as you raise your child.
Home Visiting Programs
Home visiting programs bring trained nurses or parent educators right to your home, providing ongoing coaching, education, and support during pregnancy and your baby’s early years. These free, grant-funded programs are especially valuable for first-time parents or those on Medicaid/WIC, but many are open to all families.
What They Offer
- Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP): Personal nurse visits for first-time moms, starting during pregnancy and continuing until your child turns two.
- Parents as Teachers (PAT): Ongoing, personalized support and child development coaching for any parent with kids under 5.
- Tailored Home Visits: Visits are scheduled at your convenience, covering topics like infant care, feeding, sleep, safety, and parenting goals.
- Developmental Screenings: Regular checks on your child’s growth and fun activities to boost learning.
- Resource Navigation & Group Support: Quick connections to community help, and group meetups where you can build a support network.
How to Get Help
Salt Lake County: Call (385) 468-3723 (for NFP or PAT).
Utah County Welcome Baby: Call (801) 851-7026.
Other Areas: Contact your local county health department’s family health division.
Website: familyhealth.utah.gov (find programs by county).
Service Area: Available in Salt Lake, Utah, Davis, Weber, and most Utah counties (programs vary by region).
Why It Matters
Home visiting brings expert support right to your door, so you don’t have to figure it all out alone. A caring coach celebrates your wins, answers your questions, and helps you build a safe, nurturing home. Parents often say these visits boost confidence, ease stress, and make parenting feel far less lonely.
Early Head Start (0–3 Year Old Program)
Early Head Start is a free, federally funded program for low-income expectant parents and families with children under age 3. Run by local agencies, Early Head Start supports your child’s healthy development with weekly home visits, group activities, and wraparound services for your whole family.
What They Offer
- Weekly Home Visits: A family advocate visits your home with learning activities, parenting tips, and answers to your questions.
- Health & Development Support: Guidance on baby checkups, nutrition, immunizations, and tracking developmental milestones.
- Group Socialization: Playgroups, family meals, and workshops with other parents and children.
- Family Self-Sufficiency Services: Referrals for job training, housing, or childcare; help setting and reaching personal goals.
How to Get Help
Salt Lake/Tooele: Call Utah Community Action Early Head Start at 801-972-2337.
Other Counties: Call 1-866-763-6481 for referral to your area’s program, or reach out to your local Head Start agency.
Website: utahca.org/head-start (Salt Lake/Tooele application) or headstart.gov (program locator).
Service Area: Offered in Salt Lake, Tooele, Utah, Davis, and Weber counties through local agencies.
Why It Matters
Early Head Start surrounds you and your baby with caring support and practical help. A trusted home visitor, fun learning activities, and connections to other parents give your child the healthiest, happiest start—even when resources are tight.
Family Support Centers (Parenting Classes & Respite Care)
Family Support Centers are local nonprofits that strengthen families through free parenting classes, support groups, and 24/7 crisis nurseries for children. Open to all parents—no income or documentation requirements—these centers provide a warm, confidential place to get support or a safe break whenever you need it.
What They Offer
- Crisis/Respite Childcare: Safe, short-term care for children ages 0–11, so you can attend appointments, handle emergencies, or just recharge.
- Parenting Classes & Coaching: Free courses on positive discipline, communication, and child development, offered in group or one-on-one formats (English and Spanish available).
- Support Groups & Resources: Peer support groups, family workshops, and referrals for housing, mental health, and more; some centers offer therapy and toy libraries.
How to Get Help
Salt Lake County: Call 24/7 Crisis Nursery Helpline at 801-955-9110.
Utah County (Family Haven): Call 801-229-1181 (Orem office; serves multiple counties).
Weber County: Call 801-393-3113 (Ogden office).
Website: utahfamilies.org (find your nearest center).
Service Area: Wasatch Front and other regions statewide.
Why It Matters
Family Support Centers are there when you need a break, advice, or just someone who understands. Parenting classes, support groups, and 24/7 crisis nurseries can ease stress, build skills, and remind you that asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness.
Healthy Relationships Utah – Free Fatherhood Classes
Healthy Relationships Utah offers free, supportive classes for dads (including young and single fathers) through Utah State University Extension. These interactive workshops are designed to boost your confidence, teach parenting skills, and connect you with other dads. Classes are available statewide and online, so every Utah dad can learn how to be a loving, capable parent.
What They Offer
- Fatherhood Education Workshops: Courses covering everything from baby care and discipline to co-parenting, healthy relationships, and stress management.
- Practical Life Skills: Guidance on employment, budgeting, communication, and being a positive role model for your child.
- Supportive, Fun Environment: In-person and online options with friendly instructors, group discussions, and opportunities to share experiences with other dads.
How to Get Help
Website: healthyrelationshipsutah.org (click “Free Courses” > “Parenting” > “Fatherhood Education” to find and sign up for classes).
Service Area: Statewide. In-person classes in many Utah counties and online for all residents.
Why It Matters
Fatherhood isn’t something you have to figure out alone—these workshops exist to help you thrive. You’ll get real, useful tips for parenting and life, build a network with other dads, and gain new confidence in your role. Whether you’re brand new to parenting or just want to grow, this program offers encouragement, camaraderie, and tools to help you be the best dad you can be.