Brookdale Hospital Introduces Healthy Steps Program

The HealthySteps program is a unique, evidence-based pediatric primary care program committed to healthy early childhood development and effective parenting so that all children are ready for kindergarten and success in life. Since 2016, the Brookdale Family Care Centers at New Lots and Eastern Parkway have offered this unique pediatric program.

During pediatric well visits from birth through 3 years, babies are seen by a HealthySteps Specialist in addition to their pediatrician. HealthySteps Specialists are specially trained experts in child development and behavior, and have experience working with infants, toddlers, parents and healthcare professionals. Specialists offer screening, advice, and referrals that provide families the knowledge, support and resources they need to foster a child’s social, emotional, cognitive and behavioral development. This program aims to ensure that parents and their babies get off to a strong start in life.

To support the health and development of all babies and families, HealthySteps offers:

• A HealthySteps Specialist at well-baby checkups
• Guidance on common childhood challenges such as behavior, sleeping, and adapting to life with a baby
• Access to the Specialist between well visits to answer questions about the care of infants and toddlers
• Referrals to resources to assist with breastfeeding, food, housing, childcare, and employment
• On-site screening, referrals and treatment for parents regarding depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns
• Consultations on behavior and development for children up to age 5

At HealthySteps, our goal is to support families and young children, every step of the way.

For more information, contact:

Allison Lieber, LMSW, IMH-E®, HealthySteps Specialist and Program Director: 718-240-8727

Suzanne Dougan, Program Coordinator: 718-240-8718/8908

To learn more about HealthySteps, visit www.healthysteps.org

HealthySteps at Brookdale Hospital is funded by generous grants from the Child Welfare Fund, the Edith Glick Shoolman Children’s Foundation, the Stella and Charles Guttman Foundation, and New York State-Office of Mental Health.