Early Childhood Development-Brighter Babies, Stronger Families

THE Paul Metzger Chairman OUNCEOF Irving B. Harris Chairman Emeritus PREVENTION Harriet Meyer FUND Executive Director December 22, 1998 First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton The White House Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mrs. Clinton, I would like to share a copy of our recently published report, "Brighter Babies, Stronger Families: How Home Visitors Help Families Grow Together." The report briefly summarizes some of the recent brain research, outlines the role that home visitors play, notes five key ingredients for success and disputes some myths surrounding home visiting. I understand that you are considering the possibility of convening a conference on home visiting. As I mentioned at the White House Conference on Early Childhood, the Ounce of Prevention Fund conducts voluntary home visiting in a variety of communities throughout Illinois. Through our Early Head Start and Head Start programs, we provide home-based care and education for families living in and around the Robert Taylor Homes in Chicago's Grand Boulevard community. Through our Parents Too Soon program, we also provide voluntary home visiting services through 38 community-based agencies across Illinois. All of these programs are designed to help teen parents build stronger parent-child relationships while raising healthier children who are better prepared to learn in school. If it would be helpful to your conference planning efforts, I would be delighted to share additional copies of "Brighter Babies, Stronger Families," as well as additional information based on our 15 years of experience in the field. As always, thank you for your spirited leadership in promoting the best interests of children and families. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Harriet Meyer President bcc: Jennifer Klein 122 SOUTH MICHIGAN AVENUE, SUITE 2050, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60603 PHONE: (312) 922-3863 FAX (312) 922-3337