Family Support Liaisons (FSL) Program
2023 NACo Achievement Award Winner
Fairfax County, Va., VA
Best In Category
About the Program
Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)
Year: 2023
Parenting a child with developmental delays, especially while navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, can be an isolating experience. Infant Toddler Connection (ITC) sought to provide support to parents of children birth to age 3 as they navigated the often-overwhelming array of therapeutic options offered by the agency, the Fairfax County Public School system and more. The Family Support Liaisons Program offers trained liaisons, fluent in English and Spanish with translation available in many other languages, to guide families in understanding the FSLP services and opportunities. Another key component is organizing events and outings where parents and children can connect with other families in similar circumstances. ITC has received very positive feedback from families. Attendance at events is robust and growing, with many families involved with FSL programs several times a week. The social-emotional connections have proven to be a very valuable part of supporting the entire family, both in the early years and as children make the transition to the school years and beyond.