Policy Resource

Key Components of a Successful Early Childhood Home Visitation System

Download Files Feb 17, 2010

This self-assessment tool helps states define the home visiting system, asses the home visiting system's capacity, and prioritize areas for improvement. The tool is useful for states preparing for the federal home visiting grant application process and can be used for ongoing assessment and continuous quality improvement.

Tips for Using the Self-Assessment Tool

Involve Key Stakeholders

This tool is most relevant when completed by and shared with a diverse group of stakeholders involved in home visiting efforts across the state. In states where multiple home visiting models exist, it is beneficial to involve representatives from all models so that the completed tool reflects the full breadth of home visiting efforts in the state.

Divide Responsibility of the Self-Assessment

The tool covers a broad range of content areas, from administration to evaluation. It is important to ensure that appropriate individuals complete the relevant content areas. This division of labor could be accomplished through multiple methods; however, a single entity that coordinates the process, synthesizes the information, and disseminates the results is important.

Use the Results

The tool has been designed to be action-oriented. Each component provides space for both next steps and an opportunity to rank the priority of that component for the state. This format will encourage states to create a plan for prioritizing and embarking upon those key next steps.

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