FIRST‐GENERATION LATINA MOTHERS’ EXPERIENCES OF SUPPLEMENTING HOME‐BASED EARLY HEAD START WITH THE ATTACHMENT AND BIOBEHAVIORAL CATCH‐UP PROGRAM

Abstract

ABSTRACT This qualitative pilot study examined first‐generation Latina mothers’ experiences of supplementing home‐based Early Head Start (EHS) services with the evidence‐based Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch‐up (ABC; M. Dozier, O. Lindheim, & J. Ackerman, 2005) program. Ten low‐income, first‐generation Latina mothers with infants and toddlers enrolled in home‐based EHS were provided 10 ABC home visits by a supplemental parent coach. Following delivery of ABC, mothers participated in in‐depth, semistructured, qualitative interviews about their experiences. Interview themes included positive experiences of both EHS and the ABC, a high value placed on receiving both programs, and cultural relevance of the ABC program for Latino families. Participants offered several suggestions for improved program delivery. Study findings suggest that a model of EHS supplemented by ABC delivered to the Latino community is feasible, valuable to participants, and culturally relevant. Considerations for sustainability of this supplemental model are discussed.