The importance of expanding home visitation services to include strengthening family relationships for the benefit of children

Although home visiting programs effectively address risks of maltreatment related to the mother and infant through providing services such as medical care, education/vocational support, and training on positive infant parenting practices, little programmatic attention has been paid to couple relationships, father involvement, and parenting interactions in the context of new parenthood. These relationships within the family system, if not nurtured, can heighten the risks for maltreatment. Therefore, the research on the impact of these relationships for children's wellbeing are reviewed, examples of evidence-based programs to strengthen these relationships are provided, and changes to existing home visiting policies and programs to include strengthening family relationships for the benefit of children are recommended.