If there’s one thing parenting will teach you, it’s that “winging it” only works for so long—usually until the first time you realize you’ve been giving your toddler fruit snacks for dinner three nights in a row and calling it “balanced.” The good news? In Nevada County, you don’t have to do this whole parenting thing alone.
Our Public Health Department has a whole lineup of free programs that can help you through everything from diaper shortages to postpartum depression. And since not everyone has time to dig through government websites (especially when you’re chasing small humans), I’ve rounded up the highlights for you—no boring jargon, just the stuff that matters.
Home Visits & Hands-On Help
Whether you’re expecting your first baby or already knee-deep in Legos and laundry, the Maternal, Child & Adolescent Health Program offers free home visits from public health nurses. They’ll help with baby’s growth checks, breastfeeding, safety tips, and connecting you to resources like housing and daycare.
And if you’re struggling with the emotional side of parenting (because, hello, it’s hard), check out Moving Beyond Depression—15 free in-home therapy sessions designed specifically for parents dealing with perinatal depression or anxiety.
Healthy Babies, Happy Parents
The Healthy Babies Program sends home visitors to work with you from birth through kindergarten. They bring developmental activities, bonding tips, and a whole lot of reassurance for those “am I doing this right?” moments.
I’ve personally used this program and I can say without a doubt, that the people who work here truly want to see you succeed and love helping you and your little one. I loved my home visitors (shout out to Amanda and Susanne) and they were extremely beneficial to have around on those weeks where everything went wrong.
To sign up for this program click here
Classes That Actually Help
Expecting? Take the free Becoming Us class—it’s all about strengthening your relationship and teamwork before the baby arrives. There’s also a one-stop parenting resource portal online with everything from safe sleep info to lead poisoning prevention.
Food, Diapers & More
If the grocery bill is making you sweat, the WIC Program offers supplemental food, nutrition education, and referrals for moms, infants, and young kids. The Diaper Project is exactly what it sounds like—free diapers and wipes for families who need them.
Community Connection
Family Resource Centers in Nevada County host parenting classes, playgroups, lending libraries, and family events. And if you have a kiddo 0–5, First 5 Nevada County offers playgroups, early development programs, and behavioral health support.
Pro tip:
Save 211 Nevada County in your phone. One call connects you to childcare, health services, housing help, and more—day or night.
Parenting is messy, exhausting, and completely unpredictable—but it doesn’t have to be something you do without support. Nevada County Public Health is like that friend who shows up with coffee, a casserole, and zero judgment. So take advantage of these programs, because raising tiny humans is hard enough without doing it solo.
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