Parent Resources

All parents need support, but some parents have special challenges such as poverty, substance abuse, or children with special needs. Snohomish County Health Department services can help parents find the support and assistance they need during this important time.

Health Department help for familiesDad, mom and two babies sitting together

The Snohomish County Health Department is here to help new parents find the help you need - from local resources for food and children’s supplies to housing and substance abuse treatment. Local resources include:

  • First Steps Program helps pregnant and parenting women and teens.
  • Women, Infants and Children is a nutrition and education program that helps low-income pregnant women and families of children up to age 5 buy healthy food. WIC also provides free breastfeeding support
  • The Children with Special Health Care Needs program offers support to families for a range of health problems - from educating parents to assessing children's needs and linking families to resources.

BRAIN BUILDING WITH VROOM®

The Snohomish County Health Department is proud to partner with the Washington State Department of Health to introduce child care providers and parents to Vroom®, a global program which empowers caregivers to make the most of the many moments spent with children every day.

Find free, science-based tips to help parents and caregivers support children's learning and brain growth during the crucial early years. Learn more.

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Youth Substance Use - Parent Resources

Helping a loved one who struggles with substance use or addiction can be overwhelming, especially when you're a parent trying to help your child.

One of the most important things parents can do is learn as much as possible about drugs, their use, their names, warning signs, and recovery resources. Recognizing signs of substance use and intervening early is key to preventing addiction and overdoses.

PARENTING IS STRESSFUL. HAVE A PLAN!

Being a parent or caregiver is stressful. It’s normal! But don’t take out your frustrations on a child. 

Make a personal safety plan when you feel stressed, overwhelmed, angry, and/or at the end of your patience as a parent or caregiver. The plan will change as your child grows, and each person who interacts with your child(ren) should have their own safety plan. 

It is never OK to physically harm a child when your patience has reached its limit. Have a plan.

Please use the handout or card to develop your own plan and have others who care for your children do the same. Display it in a visible location and keep a copy with you.

  1. Have a Plan Handout (English)
  2. Have a Plan Handout (Spanish)
  3. Have a Plan Poster (English)
  4. Have a Plan Poster (Spanish)
  5. Have a Plan Rack Card (English)
  6. Have a Plan Rack Card (Spanish)
have plan poster pic

Share the Materials

If you are working with families and caregivers in the community, feel free to share the materials with your clients and share the message.

24-Hour Crisis Line

If you need help or at a breaking point, call the 24-hour crisis line at 800-584-3578 or chat with them online.