Caring Parents works throughout Bartholomew County to support new families. Since starting its "Never Shake a Baby" campaign in 2003, there have been 0 cases of shaken baby reported in Bartholomew County.

Home Visit Program

The Caring Parents home visit program offers Bartholomew County’s new parents:

• The latest news on infant care and safety
• Education on the stages of child development
• Tips on parenting skills and reducing stress
• Emotional support and encouragement
• Resource referral

Volunteers visit at 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months and follow a curriculum designed by local pediatricians. Topics for each visit include infant care, nutrition, crying, home safety and developmental milestones. Home visitors bring gifts, offer encouragement and do developmental screenings to make sure everything is on track; referrals to other agencies can also be made if appropriate. Everything is provided free of charge and there are no eligibility requirements.

To join the program at any time before your child turns 1, call 372-3745 or email Caring Parents. Any Bartholomew County family with a baby under age 1 may join.

If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a home visit volunteer, please visit our volunteer page.

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In-Hospital Program

New moms at Columbus Regional Hospital receive a copy of Caring Parents'ABC: All Babies Cry book and other materials on coping with crying, SIDS and depression. The ABC book may also be purchased at Viewpoint Books for new moms who do not deliver at Columbus Regional Hospital.

Community Presentations:
Shaken Baby

This presentation on Shaken Baby can be adapted for a variety of audiences and time slots, and can also include SIDS information. For more information or to schedule a presentation, contact Carol Dingledy.