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How to remain in the "zone of helpfulness" when working with families

Christine O'Brien, BS, MS

June 1, 2024

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Question

How can home visitors remain in the "zone of helpfulness" when working with families?

Answer

The zone of helpfulness refers to the range of behaviors that facilitate decision-making, accountability, and personal growth for families. Home visitors should aim to stay within this zone by employing empowering behaviors that increase self-determination and social support for families rather than under-involving or over-involving themselves. Enabling behaviors that diminish a family's autonomy by doing things for them or shielding them from challenges fall outside this zone. Maintaining this balanced approach empowers families while avoiding unhealthy dynamics.

This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course Setting Boundaries and Time Management Techniques for Home Visitors, presented by Christine O'Brien, MS.

christine o brien

Christine O'Brien, BS, MS

Director of Workforce Development and Training

Christine has over 25 years of experience in the Early Care and Education field. She is the Director of Workforce Development and Training at Parent Possible in Colorado. She has had much experience in the field, including teaching, coaching, training, and mental health consultation. She has spent her career advocating for young children and those who work with children. She earned her BS in Early Childhood Education at Towson University in Maryland and a Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Science, with an emphasis in training at Johns Hopkins University.

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