Find out what a Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS) does, where they work, and how they can help your families and you get connected to services in your community that they need.  We will provide an overview of where a PRSS works, talk about Harm Reduction, Quick Response Teams, Family Court, and other places where PRSS support people.  We will review how Cindy and Paula have come to work together and how it has helped the families that Cindy works with in Birth to Three.

WV Early Childhood Core Knowledge and Competencies

          1.1.i. Applies relationship-based practices and family centered practices to support the family
             in reducing risks that may negatively affect child health and development
     2.1.g. Takes time to learn about families’ race, religion, home language, family structure,
             employment situation, other child care arrangements, as well as their values and beliefs
             about childhood, education and intervention
     2.1.h. Recognizes the impact of substance abuse, domestic violence, and mental illness
             within families
     2.1.l. Engages in respectful, goal-oriented partnerships with families to promote parent-child
             relationships and family well-being
     5.4.i. Acts as a resource and advocate for public education for the prevention of child abuse
             and neglect and domestic violence
     5.4.j. Recognizes and understands the importance of increasing protective factors that
             strengthen families and communities
     6.7.g. Values and encourages the expression of many perspectives and participates in open,
             collaborative discussions to get ideas and solve problems
     6.7.h. Fosters effective relationships through a climate of trust and open communication
             within collaborative teams

WV Infant/Toddler Core Competencies

• Theoretical Foundations – Infant/young child & family-centered practice
• Systems Expertise – Community resources