Welcome to Parenthood: A Family Guide
Albany, July 9, 1999 - To help new parents prepare for the challenges of raising a child, the state Health Department has re-issued its popular booklet, Welcome to Parenthood: A Family Guide. This 28-page guide contains useful information and encouragement for new parents, advice about child care, and suggestions for health care.
In a letter included in the booklet, New York's First Lady Libby Pataki says, As every new parent quickly learns, the bonds that we create with our children in their first weeks and months of life will have a dramatic impact on their future. The way we take care of our infants, the time we spend with them, and the lessons we teach them will make a big difference in whether they will grow up strong, healthy and happy.
The booklet includes information on Child Health Plus, New York State's health insurance plan for kids. This plan is available through many providers throughout the state. For children under the age of 19, not eligible for Medicaid, and with limited or no health insurance, Child Health Plus provides: well-child care; physical exams; inpatient hospital care; prescription drugs; dental and vision care; and, speech and hearing testing.
Also highlighted is the state Health Department's toll-free, Growing Up Healthy hotline, 1-800-522-5006, which can provide information about childhood immunizations, nutrition, injury prevention, and help for children with disabilities and other special health care needs.
For a FREE copy of Welcome to Parenthood: A Family Guide, click here or write New York State Department of Health, Box 2000, Albany, NY 12210.
7/9/99-71 OPA
