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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why is this program only at one hospital in Savannah?
A. It is our fondest desire to provide First Steps services at ALL birthing facilities in Chatham County. Being a volunteer driven program, First Steps is economic and efficient to operate. The program costs $75 per family on average for 3 months of services. That just $25 a month to support new families! Unfortunately, funding is only in place to operate the program at one hospital.
Q. This is my third baby. Can I really benefit from the First Steps Program?
A. Absolutely! There are new resources and new research available every day in our community. Even if you are a "seasoned" parent, you may not know about many of these offerings. First Steps keeps you in touch with services available for all parents.
Q. How much does it cost to participate in the First Steps Program?
A. First Steps services and materials are completely free and designed for everyone.
Q. What if I don't want to answer the phone when my parent coach calls?
A. We understand. You may have just laid down for a much needed rest or you are in the middle of bathing the baby. Our parent coaches are trained to leave their name and number plus a brief message so you can call us back at YOUR convenience.
Q. How do I know my privacy rights are protected?
A. All First Steps staff and volunteers abide by the Federal HIPPA regulations and the hospital itself has policies on patient privacy. You can be assured that anything you share with your parent coach will be kept in strictest confidence.
Q. How much time does it take to volunteer as a parent coach?
A. That's one of the best things about this volunteer opportunity -- it is very flexible!! If you have an hour a week or just a few hours a month, our staff can make it work for you and fit into your schedule. Check out our Become a Parent Coach page for specific questions about volunteering.
Q. Can I benefit from the First Steps program even if I have lots of family support?
A. Well meaning friends and relatives often love to give advice on what you should, or should not, be doing with your newborn. Parent coaches can help you sort through that advice and effectively use, or discard, these parenting suggestions in a loving way. New research findings often indicate a safer way to perform simple activities than the way is was done 20 years ago.
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