Birth to Five Helpline Awareness Week Shines a Spotlight
on Essential Parenting Resource
Weeklong event spreads awareness of the free helpline for expert advice for Arizona families
Southwest Human Development, Arizona’s largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development, is proud to announce the third annual “Birth to Five Helpline Awareness Week,” scheduled for September 30 through October 6, 2024.
This weeklong event aims to raise awareness about the vital, free resource that is available to Arizona parents, caregivers, and professionals who have questions or concerns regarding the early development of children from birth to age five.
Supported by First Things First and other community partners, the Birth to Five Helpline (877-705-KIDS) offers an invaluable service to Arizona families. Whether it’s a question about feeding, sleep, developmental milestones, or challenging behaviors, parents can call, text, or email a specialist to receive personalized support from early childhood experts.
“The early years of parenting are full of questions and uncertainties that every parent faces,” said Jake Adams, Chief Development Officer at Southwest Human Development. “Whether it’s wondering if they’re making the right choices or understanding their child’s behavior, the Birth to Five Helpline steps in to provide the support and guidance for the families of nearly 80,000 babies born in Arizona each year.”
Started in 2005, the Birth to Five Helpline operates Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Parents can call or text (877) 705-KIDS (5437) for immediate support or submit questions online at www.birthtofivehelpline.org. The Birth to Five Helpline app is also available on the App Store and Google Play, providing easy access to expert advice.
“Navigating the early years of a child’s life can be overwhelming, and our mission is to make sure Arizona families have access to the support they need,” said Ricardo Reyes, Manager of Community Outreach at Southwest Human Development. “The Birth to Five Helpline is a vital resource, offering expert advice and serving as a gateway to the many programs and services our community has to offer.”
During Birth to Five Helpline Awareness Week, Southwest Human Development will be working closely with local businesses, childcare centers, and community organizations to spread the word about this essential service. Promotional materials in both English and Spanish are available for organizations to distribute by contacting community@swhd.org.
For more information or to connect with an early childhood specialist, call or text the Birth to Five Helpline at (877) 705-KIDS (5437) or visit www.birthtofivehelpline.org.
Southwest Human Development is Arizona’s largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development. Recognizing a child’s earliest experiences and relationships establish the foundation for all future development, Southwest Human Development’s more than 40 comprehensive programs focus on young children—ages birth to 5—and their families in the areas of child development, mental health, Easterseals disabilities services, early literacy and Head Start, family support and child welfare, and professional development and training for those who work with young children. Founded in 1981, Southwest Human Development serves 140,000 children and families each year. Learn more at www.swhd.org.