Eaton Great Start
Great Start Collaboratives and Parent Coalitions support all areas of our State. The Great Start structure was created within the Michigan Department of Education to improve the early childhood system at the local level. All Eaton Great Start work is centered around the early childhood outcomes developed by the State of Michigan:
- Children born healthy;
- Children healthy, thriving, and developmentally on track from birth to third grade;
- Children developmentally ready to succeed in school at the time of school entry; and
- Children are prepared to succeed in fourth grade and beyond by reading proficiently by the end of third grade.
How Are You Feeling?
Our partners at Community Mental Health have created this mental health screening tool. Brief screenings are the quickest way to determine if you or someone you care about should connect with a behavioral health professional. This program is completely anonymous and confidential, and immediately following the brief questionnaire you will see your results, recommendations, and key resources.
Looking for information about childcare or preschool options near you?
Welcome Baby Bag
What’s in the Bag?
• sleep sack
• children’s books
• diaper & wipe samplers
• bath time items
• health items
• self-care items for mom
• stuff for dad
• resource sheets
• and more!
Eaton County Family Coalition
We work to empower families to support their child’s development and health. Use YOUR unique voice as a caregiver to improve the early childhood experience in Eaton County.
- Meet and build social connections with other families
- Learn about local resources
- Share your experiences to improve the work of our local early childhood system
- Increase your knowledge of child development
- Shape the future of early childhood in Eaton County
For more information, contact Kelly Mackey or visit our Eaton Great Start Family Coalition Facebook page.
Barry-Eaton Baby Cafe
The Barry-Eaton Baby Cafe is a free, informal group where caregivers can ask breastfeeding questions, receive professional lactation care and intervention and meet other caregivers.
Eaton Great Start Family Coalition
The Great Start Family Coalition brings together parents, caregivers, and others raising children from prenatal to age 12 in Eaton County.
This supportive group meets regularly to connect families, share parenting knowledge, and promote healthy child development. Members build relationships, learn about local resources, and advocate for quality early childhood experiences in our community.
Together, we strengthen families and shape a brighter future for all.
Kelly Mackey, Family Liaison
Kelly Mackey
517.541.8989
Parents as Teachers
Parents as Teachers is a free, evidence-based home visiting program available to families in Eaton County and the Eaton RESA service area. It supports parents from prenatal to kindergarten entry, helping promote healthy development and school readiness.
Through one-on-one support, families gain confidence, learn about child development and connect to local resources.
To learn more or enroll, contact Nikki Sellec at 517-541-8987.
Find the Help You Need
Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
WIC is a program that helps families meet their nutrition and health goals. WIC staff work hard to meet you where you are in a safe non-judgmental space. WIC provides healthy food, nutrition counseling with a Registered Dietitian, and referrals to additional community resources. WIC clients can meet with on-staff Registered Dietitians or nurses to answer any nutritional questions you may have about you or your family. WIC also provides special benefits for breastfeeding moms and babies. Breastfeeding moms are eligible for free breast pumps. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or are caring for an infant or child under 5 (including dads, grandparents, or foster parents with custody) you may qualify!
Barry-Eaton District Health Department
These materials were developed under a grant awarded by the Michigan Department of Education.
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