A new parenting program launching in August is set to provide vital support for Mackay mothers with babies under six months, helping them connect with others in the same season of life, right in their own neighbourhood.
The Early Parenting Program, delivered by Queensland Community Health, will run each Tuesday morning in August at the Northern Beaches Community Hall. Previously only offered in Mackay’s city area, the program’s move north marks a significant milestone in local efforts to bring services closer to families.
“This initiative is to make sure no mum gets left behind,” said Northern Beaches community advocate and playgroup coordinator Rebecca Cooper.
“We want every parent to feel they belong and to find their support network within their own community.”
Rebecca speaks from personal experience.
“I didn’t really have that village,” she shared.
“That’s part of why I’m really passionate. I joined a parenting program nine years ago with my first child, and I was lucky to meet like-minded women who became my village.”
The four-week program focuses on early parenting support, covering topics like sleep, settling, baby massage and nutrition. But more importantly, it fosters friendships that often grow into lasting mother’s groups.
“You’re not just learning,” Rebecca said.
“You’re sharing the journey with people going through the exact same thing.”
At the Northern Beaches Playgroup, many local mums say they value the weekly sessions, but those with newborns can sometimes feel on the outer.
“When you’ve got a baby under six months, you’re in a totally different phase,” Rebecca explained.
“You’re not chasing toddlers, and you often need a space where you can connect with other parents in that moment.”
For many mums, the benefits of playgroups go beyond the children.
“It’s just good to get out of the house for a bit,” one mum said.
“There’s different scenery, lots of activities, and you meet other people going through the same thing.”
Another added, “I’ve actually made friends with other mums I wouldn’t have met otherwise. So that really helps.”
To register for the free program, contact Community Health on 4885 7750.
What: Northern Beaches Early Parenting Program Outreach
When: 9:30am to 11:30am on Tuesdays – August 5, 12, 19 and 26
Where: Northern Beaches Community Hall, 24 Wallace Street, Bucasia
Cost: Free – registration essential
To book: Phone Community Health on 4885 7750
A new free parenting program launching in August at the Northern Beaches Community Hall will support local mums with babies under six months, helping them connect, learn, and build lasting friendships close to home. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
