KidsFirst

What is KidsFirst?

KidsFirst is a voluntary program that helps vulnerable families to become the best parents they can be and to have the healthiest children possible. The program enhances knowledge, provides support and builds on family strengths.

The KidsFirst program is not designed to replace existing services, but to enhance existing programs in the community.

What do KidsFirst Families receive?

KidsFirst families receive:

• Support from a home visitor who provides assistance regarding child development, parenting and connecting to the community;
• Help to access services such as childcare and parent support groups;
• Early learning opportunities for children; and
• Help regarding literacy, nutrition, transportation and specialized counseling services.

Who is Eligible for KidsFirst?

Parents and their children under five years of age who live off-reserve in the targeted areas are assessed for program eligibility.

The in-home assessment looks at family strengths. Those who can best benefit from KidsFirst services are eligible for the program.

What are the Services?

• Prenatal Referral and Support
• In-hospital Questionnaire
• Assessment
• Home Visiting Services
• Mental Health and Addiction Services
• Early Learning and Childcare
• Family Support Opportunities

Who Will Benefit?

• Prenatal women
• Postnatal women
• Children
• Parents
• Families
• Community

For further information, contact one of the following KidsFirst sites in Saskatchewan:

• Meadow Lake 306-236-6441
• Moose Jaw* 306-692-1204 or 306-694-8336
• Nipawin 306-862-6222
• North Battleford 306-446-6012
• Northern Saskatchewan 306-235-5436 or 306-425-8033
• Prince Albert* 306-765-6656
• Regina* 306-766-6796
• Saskatoon* 306-655-5399
• Yorkton 306-783-1946 or 306-783-0383

*selected neighbourhoods in these communities

What is Available Outside of the 9 Communities with KidsFirst Programs?

All babies born in Saskatchewan hospitals are screened to assess challenges faced by the families and determine KidsFirst eligibility. In communities that do not have a KidsFirst program, public health services connect families to alternative services and programs.
Regional KidsFirst Early Childhood Community Developers work with stakeholders and partners, including tribal councils, First Nations service agencies and Métis Friendship Centres to develop strategies that support vulnerable families and to align services. Working within the borders of provincial regional health authorities, they facilitate planning and collaboration around early childhood development.

A joint initiative of:

• Ministry of Education
• Ministry of Health
• Ministry of Social Services
• Ministry of First Nations and Métis Relations
• numerous community agencies

Funded by the Government of Canada

Early Childhood Development
2220 College Avenue
Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
S4P 4V9
Tel: (306) 787-6532
Fax: (306) 787-0277