‘The First Years Last Forever’

Research around the world shows that our health, well-being and coping skills as adults are strongly related to the first years of our lives. From conception to school age, infants' and children’s brains develop in response to their environment and will influence their future.

Children need a responsive and interactive environment of talking, reading, mentoring and encouragement to explore their world through play, warmth and acceptance and protection from teasing and punishment. (UBC Human Early Learning Partnership (HELP))

NH Preventive Public Health staff are expert health care providers and, in collaboration with community service partners, are dedicated to providing services and support with a focus in early childhood health, development, education and family well-being.

Questions about your infant, children or family health? Contact your local health unit to speak to a public health nurse.

Register Early in Pregnancy with Northern Health’s Healthy Start Program

The Northern Health authority’s Healthy Start Program provides public health services to pregnant women, new mothers, babies, children and families.

What is the Prenatal Registry?

Public Health Nursing provides prenatal services that support you to have the healthiest pregnancy and baby possible.

Public Health Nurses can help you to:

• Receive prenatal health information and resources
• Make healthy choices in pregnancy
• Learn about feeding and caring for a new baby
• Get the physical and emotional support you need
• Find community services that are right for you

Who should register?

All pregnant women in the following areas:

Northeast:

• Fort St. John

Northern Interior:

• Fort St. James
• Fraser Lake
• Mackenzie
• Prince George
• Quesnel
• Valemount
• Vanderhoof

Northwest:

• Prince Rupert

Plans to expand to all other areas of Northern Health

Registration is Easy!

1. Complete the Prenatal Registration Questionnaire - "Support During Your Pregnancy" from the Prenatal Registration Package received from your doctor, midwife, nurse practitioner or First Nations Community provider at your first prenatal visit
2. Drop off completed form with your doctor or at one of the NH Public Health Units (Prenatal Registry sites)
3. Your registration will be reviewed by a Public Health Nurse who may call you to discuss what supports are right for you.

All women who register will receive a prenatal registration package that includes:

• Baby’s Best Chance Parent Handbook
• Pregnancy Passport
• List of local Community Resources