Healthy Start Coalition, Inc. of Bay, Franklin and Gulf Counties

06/18/2026

Thank you to the NWF Health Network for hosting the wonderful Fatherhood Conference!

06/18/2026

The Healthy Start Coalition of Bay, Franklin, and Gulf Counties is dedicated to helping families build healthy beginnings.

We work to improve the health and well-being of pregnant women, babies, and families by connecting them to education, resources, and support services throughout pregnancy and early childhood.

Whether you're a parent, healthcare provider, community partner, volunteer, or advocate, there are many ways to support healthier outcomes for local families. Follow our page, share our resources, attend events, or help connect families to the services they need.

Together, we can help every child get a healthy start.

Learn more at HealthyStartBFG.com.

06/17/2026

Quitting smoking during pregnancy is one of the best things you can do for your health and your baby's health.

It's never too late to quit. Stopping smoking at any point during pregnancy can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.

A few tips to help:
• Set a quit date and take it one day at a time
• Remove ci******es and smoking triggers from your environment
• Ask family and friends for support
• Stay busy with healthy activities like walking or stretching
• Talk with your healthcare provider about resources and quitting strategies

Every cigarette not smoked is a step toward a healthier pregnancy.

Learn more at HealthyStartBFG.com.

06/17/2026

A safe sleep environment is one of the most important ways to protect your baby.

Remember the ABCs of Safe Sleep:
• Alone – Baby sleeps alone in their own sleep space
• Back – Place baby on their back for every sleep
• Crib – Use a firm, flat crib or bassinet with only a fitted sheet

Watch the video and help share this important message with other families.

https://www.charlieskids.org/videos?pgid=lt7lmip1-aa6bc253-0508-4446-b686-5ebab73ff0be

- Waiting Room iPads/TVs                                                     - YouTube Channel

06/15/2026

Morning sickness can be difficult, and some people may believe ma*****na is a safe way to manage nausea during pregnancy. However, research shows that THC crosses the placenta and reaches a baby’s developing brain.

There is no known safe amount of THC during pregnancy, including smoking, va**ng, or edibles. If you are experiencing nausea or vomiting, talk with your healthcare provider about safer ways to manage your symptoms.

Watch this important video from Drug Free America to learn more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWe8HL6jtnU

Pregnant and struggling with nausea or vomiting? Some people believ...

06/12/2026

Please enjoy our Summer 2026 Healthy Start newsletter!

06/12/2026

🤰 Pregnancy Fact vs. Fiction

Fiction: You need to eat for two.
Fact: Most pregnant women only need a few hundred extra calories per day during the second and third trimesters.

Fiction: Heartburn means your baby will have lots of hair.
Fact: While some studies have found a connection, heartburn is primarily caused by pregnancy hormones and pressure on the stomach.

Fiction: You should avoid all fish during pregnancy.
Fact: Many fish are excellent sources of nutrients. Choose low-mercury options and follow your provider's recommendations.

When it comes to pregnancy advice, always look for trusted sources and talk with your healthcare provider.

Learn more at HealthyStartBFG.com.

06/10/2026

Staying active during pregnancy can benefit both mom and baby.

Regular physical activity may help improve sleep, boost energy, reduce stress, support a healthy pregnancy, and prepare your body for labor and recovery.

Some pregnancy-friendly activities include:
• Walking
• Swimming
• Prenatal yoga
• Light strength training
• Stretching and mobility exercises

Always talk with your healthcare provider before starting or changing an exercise routine during pregnancy.

Remember, movement doesn't have to be intense to be beneficial. Even a short walk can make a difference.Learn more at HealthyStartBFG.com.

06/08/2026

Pool days are a great way to enjoy the summer, but safety should always come first.

A few important reminders for parents and caregivers:

💦 Never leave children unattended near water, even for a moment
💦 Designate a responsible adult as the "Water Watcher"
💦 Stay within arm's reach of infants and young children
💦 Make sure pools are protected with fences and self-latching gates
💦 Learn CPR and basic water rescue skills
💦 Use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when appropriate
💦 Empty kiddie pools after each use

Drowning can happen quickly and quietly. Active supervision is the best way to keep children safe around water.

Learn more at HealthyStartBFG.com.

06/03/2026

Tracking your baby’s movements in the third trimester is a simple, powerful way to monitor your baby’s health. Most babies develop a regular pattern of kicks, rolls, and stretches, and getting to know that pattern can help you notice changes early.

How to track fetal movement:
• Choose a time each day when your baby is usually active.
• Count how long it takes to feel 10 movements.
• Keep track of this time daily—patterns matter.
• Contact your healthcare provider right away if movements slow down or feel different than usual.

Daily kick counting helps identify concerns early and supports healthier outcomes for moms and babies. Learn more at HealthyStartBFG.com.