State of Rhode Island
Department of Health
New Safe Sleep Recommendations to Protect Against SIDS video
Get regular healthcare for you and baby
Breastmilk is the most complete form of nutrition for infants. Breastfeeding education and support is available for new parents through the WIC and Family Visiting programs and through telephone support at Rhode Island birthing hospitals. more
Get help for feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety
Many new moms have feelings like these that don't go away or get better in a couple days. Talk to your doctor or request a free family visit if something doesn't feel right at any time, even in pregnancy. With help, you and your baby will be well. more
Family visitors offer free support to moms-to-be, families, and babies. Join other parents like you who want to give their babies the best possible start. more
Learn about newborn screening and follow-up
At birth, Rhode screens every baby for 30 conditions, including hearing loss. more
Understand and support your child's development
Know about childhood development milestones. Talk to your doctor about developmental screening.more
Prevent an unintended pregnancy and plan your family
Talk to your doctor or a family planning agency about a birth control option that's best for you. If you are thinking of having more children, talk about your reproductive life plan and pregnancy spacing. more
Keep yourself healthy and well
Keep your home and car safe for baby
Make sure the people who contact your baby are immunized
Doctors recommend that adults and adolescents who will be around infants be vaccinated with a single dose of Tdap. This could include parents, siblings, grandparents, babysitters, and other child care providers. Tdap protects against, among other diseases, pertussis. Infants are too young to be fully immunized against pertussis, but an infant's exposure to the illness can be reduced if he or she only comes into contact with people who are vaccinated. This practice is called cocooning.
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program provides many services for eligible families, including breastfeeding support, medical and social service referrals, and checks for healthy foods. more
The Department of Human Services (DHS) Rhode Island Works Program offers eligible parents temporary cash assistance, health coverage, child care assistance, and help finding job training or a job. To learn more or to apply, contact your local DHS office. more
Find quality-rated child care services
BrightStars can help you access quality child care and early learning programs in your community. more