A new branch of support, friendship and fun is growing for parents and guardians of babies aged under six months in Batemans Bay, Moruya and Narooma.
‘Embracing Babies’, run by Eurobodalla Shire Council’s Children’s Services, is a friendly and casual fortnightly catch up for mums, dads, grandparents or other guardians of babies, to come together and socialise.
Child Development Officer Jess Bourke says the groups will be facilitated by experienced early childhood professionals.
“We encourage anyone with an infant to come along and meet other families, make new friends and get advice and support if they need it,” she says
“We’re looking at holding the first groups by the end of July, but where and what days we meet will largely be determined by the members themselves. For example, we might meet at a playground or cafe, or have special guests visit to talk about areas of interest – it will depend on the group.
“There will be strong focus on playing and connecting with babies as well as acknowledging how challenging and isolating this time can be. Parents and guardians will get information about local services, child development and be able to network with other families.”
Ms Bourke says there is a clear need for support groups for parents and guardians of new babies in the Eurobodalla.
“We know there are people in our community who might be new to the area, are from non-English speaking backgrounds or who are just looking for an opportunity to meet others in the same boat,” she says.
“Families with babies older than six months will be supported to connect with local services and playgroups such as Council’s free 3Bs playgroups, which cater for children aged zero to five and are held throughout the shire, from Batemans Bay to Wallaga Lake.”
For more information about Embracing Babies, or to register your interest, phone Jess Bourke on 4474 7333 or email [email protected]