New support group for parents of babies

Parents and guardians of babies aged under six months have access to new informal support groups in Batemans Bay, Moruya and Narooma.

Embracing Babies, run by Eurobodalla 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.

Council’s child development officer Jess Bourke said the groups would be held fortnightly and 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 said.

“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 said there was a clear need for support groups for parents and guardians of new babies in 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 said.

“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 Council’s child development officer Jess Bourke on 4474 7333 or email [email protected]