The Crucial Role of Home Visiting During COVID-19: Supporting Young Children and Families

This commentary examines the importance of home visiting during the COVID-19 pandemic, as families face new or expanding challenges like domestic violence, substance use, or mental health needs.

Home visiting has long served an essential role in addressing the needs of young children by connecting families to programs, supports, and services. Home visitors—typically nurses, social workers, or community health workers supported by local, state, or federal funding—build relationships that extend beyond parenting and child development.