Early Childhood Zones are geographically based collaborative networks of home visiting programs at the core and varying supportive services to families.
The Early Childhood Zones serve parents who are expecting and parents with children ages birth to four. To be eligible, a family must meet the childhood criteria and live in one of the targeted school attendance areas outlined below.
There are currently three Early Childhood Zones in Dane county:
(Map needed)
Northside Early Childhood Zone serving MMSD Gompers, Lakeview, Mendota and Lindberg attendance area and the Brentwood neighborhood.
Home visiting is at the service core of the Early Childhood Zones. Home visiting is provided by trained professionals weekly or every other week for expectant parents and parents of infants and toddlers. Services are delivered in the parent home and include:
In addition to home visiting services, ECZ participants are offered Enhancement Services.
Employment Support: Employment support staff assist ECZ parents in reaching their education and employment goals such as searching and applying for jobs, preparing for job interviews, securing a driver’s license, signing up for supports and economic assistance, support in obtaining a GED/HSED, and signing up for classes and trainings.
Housing Stability: The ECZ housing specialist supports families maintain stable housing. Supports include assisting with housing searches, helping fill out applications for low-income or public housing; helping renters better understand their rights and responsibilities; working with renters to have successful relationships with landlords and management companies.
In-home Mental Health Support: Mental health support is available to address emotional and mental health concerns. Mental health staff closely with the home visiting team.
Megan Meinen Prevention and Early Intervention Manager, DCDHS
