b'Mias Story: A Preschooler Readied, a Family SteadiedKimberley and her family faced a host of challenges at the onset of the COVID-19pandemicthey almost lost their housing, and Kimberleys husband began struggling with mental health issues. Then their toddler Mia developed worrisomebehavioral changes, including explosive and destructive outbursts.Kimberley sought a psychiatric evaluation for Mia through her daughters pediatrician, but the wait was daunting,especially for a provider who would take their insurance. She happened to hear about Riversides Early Head Start (EHS) program through a parenting workshop, although she was apprehensive at first Kimberley worriedabout the stigma ofentering the system.Their first Riverside EHS playgroup gathering put her concerns to rest. Greeted by a welcoming team of staff with diverse backgrounds and specialties, Kimberley noted, It was like walking intosomeones home.She appreciated the comprehensive support that Riverside staff couldprovide for the familys needs, including a daycare voucher for Mias transition to preschool, and services that helped them reach their goals of financial and housing security. Kimberley says that the focus on child development, coupled with strong supports for the family, made all the differencesuccessfully preparing Mia for preschool and helping Kimberley to become a strong advocate for family services.Riverside Early Head Start works with parents of infants and toddlers to promote childrens healthy development andprepare them to successfully enter preschool, and to help families with comprehensive training and support.4 Note: Names changed to protect privacy.'