Established in June of l998, the Special Start Training Program [SSTP] provides specialized training in the unique developmental needs of babies who are born either sick or premature. The Program is designed for professionals and caregivers caring for newborns who were hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care nursery at birth and have transitioned home.

This relationship-based program is intended for community service professionals, parents, foster parents and other caregivers. The Program is funded through the State of California Department of Social Services and all training is free of charge.

The training emphasizes collaboration between professionals, caregivers and community, as caregivers support the infant’s development. Building on the strengths of the infant and the family during interaction with the caregiver is also emphasized.

Dedicated to the development of high-risk newborns, the SSTP is guided by the following principles: