The F5VC parent survey provides a snapshot of needs, resources and barriers affecting parents of young children in Ventura County. It was distributed via web, email and hard copy, in English and Spanish, across the county. We were pleased to see that parent input correlated closely with local demographics; and all regions were well represented. Special thanks to our community colleagues, including Venturaparent.com, Ojai Valley News, Santa Paula Times and the 11 First 5 Neighborhoods for Learning for helping to get F5VC surveys into the hands of local parents.

What did we hear? Parents clearly cited the most important resources as parent support and education, health and dental care, and preschool/early learning, echoing First 5's focus. Respondents liked receiving information through a trusted website, through a neighborhood center, or through a live-person. While the internet was preferred by the greatest number, not surprisingly it ranked lower with the lowest income populations. The biggest barrier to accessing resources: affordability.

As we continue the strategic planning process, the F5VC Commission is looking at survey results in combination with extensive literature review, focus group results and staff input. A summary of the F5VC parent survey is available by clicking here.