Play and Learning Strategies
PALS works to strengthen the bond between parents and children using a responsive caregiving model. The model also provides stimulation that supports the development of children’s language, cognitive skills, and social development. See playandlearning.org for details.
What is the model’s approach to providing home visiting services?
Home visits take place once per week for 60 to 90 minutes. Services are provided until the curriculum is completed, which takes 10 weeks for infants and 12 weeks for toddlers and preschool-age children. PALS requires families to initiate services following the birth of the child. Families may enroll when the child is between 5 and 59 months old, although the model recommends that families enroll before the child is 4 years old.
PALS’ target population includes the following:
- Teenage mothers or teenage parents
- Unmarried mothers or single parents
- Parents/caregivers with limited education
- Children with developmental delays or disabilities
- Families with a history of child abuse or neglect/involvement with child welfare system
Who is implementing the model?
Home Visitors
The model requires an associate’s degree in early childhood or work experience commensurate with education and a high school diploma for home visitors; a bachelor’s degree is recommended. The maximum caseload requirement for home visitors is 15 families.
Supervisors
The model requires a bachelor’s degree for supervisors; a master’s degree is recommended.
Where is the model implemented?
PALS operated in three states in 2018.
