This June, Connecting NJ is bringing families a powerful lineup of free educational sessions designed to support the emotional, physical, and relational well-being of parents and caregivers. Whether you're navigating the early days of parenthood, managing summer heat, or building your village, we have something for you.

Fortunately, there are a few ways and practices to grow in your communication skills. Here are healthy habits you can try to become a strong communicator.

If you try to live altruistically, then combating your own loneliness can play a vital role in how you serve others. Here’s how to overcome loneliness in everyday life.

While it might seem simple to say talents can help others, actually identifying your talents and putting them to good use can be a little bit more difficult.

Central Jersey Family Health Consortium is ecstatic tic to announce Family Connects International, has honored Lillian Dieudonne, RN, Nurse Manager for Family Connects NJ, as their 2025 Leader of the Year. Known for her ability to connect with families with the fewest resources—many of whom are new to the country—Lillian leads with empathy, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to care.

We’re thrilled to celebrate NJ Early Intervention Week 2025! This year’s theme, “Stronger Together: Joining Hands to Empower Every Family,” reminds us that early intervention is a community effort, and every connection we make matters.

We invite families, caregivers, and early childhood professionals to join us for a series of FREE virtual and in-person events designed to support and empower everyone involved in a young child’s life. Registration is required — Zoom links will be sent to those who register!

We have the best motivational tips and tricks to keep you motivated for the end of the school year. Don’t give up yet—stay encouraged with these easy ideas.

This May, Connecting NJ invites families, parents, and parents-to-be to participate in a series of free, engaging events designed to support your journey through pregnancy, parenting, and family life. Whether you're expecting your first baby or juggling life with little ones already at home, these sessions offer valuable insights, practical tools, and community connection.

Luckily, there are a few tips and tricks to encourage picky eaters young and old to try new foods. Check out these helpful hints to (hopefully) try new things.

Child abuse is preventable — and prevention begins long before harm or neglect ever happens. When communities are engaged and informed, prevention becomes a shared responsibility — not just a service, but a movement.

From pregnancy to early childhood, Central Jersey Family Health Consortium’s programs are designed to support families in care, guidance, and resources.

Turns out, even the smallest steps can have an impact. This Earth Day, consider your ecological footprint and enact these seven green ways to embrace today.

On April 10, 2025, a powerful movement unfolded at the Central Jersey Family Health Consortium’s third annual Black Maternal Health Conference, themed "Rise Up! Advancing Black Maternal Health Equity in New Jersey." Presented by the Consortium’s Healthy Women, Healthy Families program, the conference was a rallying call for change, a moment of healing, and a platform for voices that demand to be heard.

On April 3, 2025, Montclair State University hosted the annual Early Childhood Luminary Professional Conversation, honoring the remarkable Eve Robinson. Co-sponsored by leading early childhood organizations, the event recognized Eve with the Roots and Wings Award for her decades of contributions to early childhood education, advocacy, and child welfare. Interviewed by friend and colleague Lorri Sullivan, Eve’s heartfelt reflections illuminated how her Trenton upbringing shaped her unwavering commitment to community care and inclusion. Her story is a testament to the power of compassionate leadership and the legacy one person can leave behind.

Despite their age, children can have a powerful impact in the community, if only we encourage them to do so. Here are four reasons kids should start volunteering young.

The SIDS Center of New Jersey and Central Jersey Family Health Consortium are committed to helping families reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths through education, support, and outreach.

As the days grow longer and spring brings new beginnings, it's the perfect time to refresh, refocus, and reconnect. Connecting NJ is here to support you and your family every step of the way with free educational sessions designed to inform, empower, and uplift.

Poetry is a cultural art form that combines the beauty of literature with an artistic sense of musicality. This National Poetry Month, you can celebrate by trying these 13 ideas.

Cheryl McFarland, director of Evaluation and Analytics at CJFHC, was recently featured in an NJ Spotlight News article discussing the potential ramifications of the recent decision by the administration to suspend the collection of crucial pregnancy risk assessment data.

If you want to live a more altruistic life, but aren’t sure where to start, then you’ve come to the right place. Here’s how to find a cause you care about.

No matter how young your baby is, it is never too early to start building a strong reading foundation. Join us for this informative session and discover new ways to nurture your child’s love of books and learning.

By attending this session, parents will gain valuable insights into how to advocate for their child’s health and well-being. Whether this is your first baby or just your first time attending a pediatric visit, this presentation will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to ensure a positive experience for both you and your baby.

Connecting NJ invites you to the Young & New Fathers Rising Up Expo & Panel Discussion, an event for new fathers and fathers-to-be to provide guidance, support, and resources.

Whether you are an expectant parent or recently welcomed your child, this session will equip you with tools and knowledge to navigate emotional challenges with confidence.

Esta sesión interactiva está diseñada para responder todas tus preguntas de manera práctica y accesible. Alba Lucia Thomas, Consultora Certificada en Lactancia Materna por la Junta Internacional (IBCLC), ha apoyado a familias durante más de 15 años en inglés y español en el centro de Nueva Jersey. Sus servicios incluyen educación prenatal sobre lactancia, consultas sobre problemas de lactancia, planificación del regreso al trabajo, destete y más.

In this session, we’ll be joined by Doula Jodi Simmons from TruDoulas NJ, who will share insights into her work and answer your questions. Whether you’re a new or expecting parent, this is your chance to explore how a doula can empower and guide you through pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond.

Turns out, helping others can actually help you live longer. You heard that right: the key to a long and fruitful life might exist in what you give, not in what you get.

How can you enjoy the new sunshine of the season? Here are some ideas for how to live your best altruistic life and celebrate sunshine on the first day of spring.

March is Social Work Month, a time to recognize the dedication and resilience of social workers who stand up for justice, advocate for the vulnerable, and create lasting change in communities.

This session is designed to help parents, especially those with newborns, navigate the challenges of working while ensuring their little ones get the best start possible.

National Plant a Flower Day is the perfect start to the new season, so if you want to get involved, there are a few ways to join. Here’s how you can give back today.

Central Jersey Family Health Consortium, in collaboration with ProPublica, invites you to a special screening of "Before A Breath"—a groundbreaking documentary that brings real stories to the forefront and sparks crucial conversations about stillbirth prevention.

Today we dive into the history behind this month and how you can get involved, give back and build a better world by celebrating National Women’s History Month.

From February 12-14, 2025, Central Jersey Family Health Consortium (CJFHC) was proudly represented by Grysmeldy Gonzalez, BSN, RN, Director of Nursing, Program Administrator, Family Connects NJ, and Lynda Cuevas, Health Families TIP Program Manager & Supervisor, at the National Home Visiting Summit in Washington, D.C.

Did you know you can also give by supporting small businesses? Here are some hows, whys and benefits of supporting small businesses for your altruistic lifestyle.

Even if you care about a cause, how can you ensure you’re a good fit for the position? Here are some ideas to help you find the right fit for volunteering.

Join us for an insightful conversation on how to maintain your wellness during your first year postpartum. Kathy Donaldson, an expert in perinatal mental health, will share practical tips and resources to help you navigate this transformative period. From managing stress and seeking support to finding small ways to care for yourself, this session will offer guidance for new moms who may be feeling overwhelmed.

Valentine’s Day can be more than just romantic love, but true, kind, caring love for your neighbors and those in need. How can you lead a more altruistic life this week?

Black History Month is a time to remember, celebrate and commemorate the achievements and contributions by African-American men and women throughout U.S. history.

The 2025 Maternal Health Awareness Day Conference celebrated New Jersey’s progress while reinforcing the collective commitment to action. First Lady Tammy Murphy highlighted how far New Jersey has come in the last seven years in addressing the maternal health crisis, highlighting that New Jersey has moved from 47th to 28th in the nation in maternal mortalities and will set a national standard for addressing maternal health disparities by becoming the first state in the nation to have a dedicated Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Center.

The stories shared, strategies discussed, and connections forged at the January 23rd conference reaffirmed a shared mission: ensuring that every mother in New Jersey receives the care, respect, and support she deserves. Together, we are taking action for a healthier, more equitable future.

It’s true: with a lack of Vitamin D and little time spent outdoors, the winter months can literally make you sad. Luckily, we have some ways to combat seasonal depression.

This interactive session will provide evidence-based insights and practical tips to help you feel confident about nourishing your body and your baby. Whether you’re newly pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning for the future, this event is designed to support you every step of the way.

Join Connecting NJ for an empowering one-time session, "Empowering Parents: Community Health Workers in Maternal & Newborn Health," where you will learn critical role Community Health Workers play in ensuring families like yours receive the care, education, and support they need during pregnancy and postpartum.

Connecting NJ's one-time session, “Self-Care Strategies During Pregnancy & Postpartum”, is designed to empower pregnant and postpartum mothers with tools, knowledge, and resources to nurture their mental and physical health.

How can we as individuals commemorate Dr. King’s life, and further continue his legacy? Here are some ideas to get started and celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Join us on January 22 for a virtual session exploring core needs like attachment, autonomy, and love to nurture children’s emotional well-being and development. Learn practical parenting tips and affirmations!

Not sure if donating blood is the right decision for you? Check out all the answers to your questions here, and help give life this January.

Join Connecting NJ on January 30, 2025, from 12 PM – 1 PM for a free virtual mindfulness session. Learn stress-reducing exercises, how mindfulness supports healthy parenting, and signs of postpartum depression and anxiety. Register now!

On Maternal Health Awareness Day, join us for a powerful gathering of healthcare professionals and advocates dedicated to ending the maternal health crisis in New Jersey. Hosted by The Partnership for Maternal & Child Health of Northern New Jersey, Central Jersey Family Health Consortium, and The Cooperative, this free, in-person event will feature thought-provoking educational presentations and invaluable networking opportunities.

Learn practical tips for healthy eating during pregnancy and fostering a nutritious environment for your family in Connecting NJ's free virtual session on January 27, 2025, at 10:30 AM.

This session is for expecting parents and parents of newborns who want to learn more about breastfeeding, the role of equity in access to resources, their rights to resources, and how to overcome common challenges like setting up feeding schedules, pumping at work or on the go, and more.