Stress in the environment is every bit as dangerous to the brain as chemical toxins, especially for children. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that children exposed to traumatic events are more likely to develop mental and behavioral health problems like depression and addiction.

A nurturing, consistent relationship can actually prevent this brain damage. That’s what Child First is all about. An innovative, home-based, early childhood intervention model, Child First approaches each child holistically, fostering a system of care that works to decrease the incidence of serious emotional disturbance, developmental and learning problems, and abuse and neglect among the most vulnerable young children and families.Learn more about this innovative program: http://www.rwjf.org/en/grants/grantee…

With the help of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Child First has grown from a community-based program to an established program in the state of Connecticut. And this innovative model is spreading across the country. Learn how to bring this program to your community: http://rwjf.org/en/about-rwjf/program…

Key Results

• Children receiving services from Child First:
• Were 68 percent less likely to have language problems
• Were 42 percent less likely to have aggressive and defiant behaviors
• Child First mothers had 64 percent lower levels of depression and/or mental health problems than mothers receiving usual care.