Join a First-Time Parent Group
Our first-time parent groups are running in-person at our Maternal and Child Health centres, and both parents are welcome to attend.
Please talk to your Maternal and Child Health nurse about joining a First Time Parent Group, or call 9518 3662 to book or to ask any questions regarding your group.
About our First-time Parent Groups
Becoming a parent for the first time can be a challenging yet exciting time.
Monash Council organises parents' groups to help ensure first-time parents get the support they need, and can meet other first-time parents.
Members of parents' groups often forge long-term friendships while gaining valuable support and information.
Held in a relaxed and supportive environment, the groups are facilitated by qualified Maternal and Child Health nurses who are happy to answer any questions you may have during these sessions.
What to expect from the program
The topics covered in the group meetings include:
- What to expect in the early weeks
- Starting your baby on solids
- Sleep and settling guidance
- Family health and more
When to start attending the group
We suggest that parents start attending these groups when their baby is between 1 month and 4 months of age. However, we welcome all first-time parents with a baby up to the age of 6 months.
For first-time parents with a child over 6 months of age, please discuss with your Maternal and Child Health nurse the possibility of linking into an existing older age new parent group or connect into a local playgroup via www.playgroup.org.au
How to join a group
Please talk to your Maternal and Child Health nurse about joining a First Time Parent Group, or call 9518 3662.
Program outline
Week 1
- Group guidelines
- Getting to know each other: Beginning our group
- A settled baby: What does it mean?
More information:
Week 2
- Getting to know your baby (baby massage)
- Baby’s ages and stages: What to expect
- Play: More than fun and games
More information:
Week 3
- Library visit
- Communicating with your baby through music and books
More information:
Week 4
- Keeping your child safe: Preventing accidents
- Managing childhood illness
More information:
Week 5
- Food: Your baby and the family
- Teething and looking after baby's teeth for life
More information:
Week 6
- Being a parent: Changes and challenges
- Looking after yourself: Exploring parent's health
- Returning to paid work
- Where to from here?
More information: