Tackling the Tough Stuff

Home visits with atrisk families present unique, complex challenges that professionals must be ready to address with skill and sensitivity. The problemsolving framework in this practical guide will help home visitors manage even the most difficult onthejob challengesand support and empower vulnerable families of children birth to 3.The authors PAUSE framework Perceive, Ask, Understand, Strategize, and Evaluate walks home visitors through the entire process of addressing problems, from recognizing a difficult situation to evaluating the chosen action steps. Readers will learn how to apply the framework in realworld situations, partner with parents to understand their perspectives, take direct and effective action to help the parents and children they work with, and give atrisk families the tools they need to resolve their own challenges in the future.HOME VISITORS WILLSkillfully blend relationshipbased and reflective practice approaches in their daily workUnderstand whats behind childrens challenging behaviorsLearn specific tips for helping families solve key challenges, from feeding issues to meltdownsWork sensitively and effectively with families facing difficult situations, including domestic violence, substance abuse, and mental illnessEquip families with practical caregiving skills theyll use long after the home visit is overSet appropriate boundaries with families and mend any breaks in the providercaregiver relationshipUse selfcare strategies to address symptoms of burnout and secondary traumaPRACTICAL MATERIALS Helpful sample dialogues and vignettes to use as models, plus reproducible blank forms on exploring challenging behaviors, discussing difficult topics, reflecting on practices, helping parents improve their skills, and more.