Service Description

Early parenthood can be a time of great joy and excitement while you get to know your new baby, find pride and delight in every milestone, and experience a kind of love that is unparalleled. It is a time when many people discover aspects of themselves that might surprise them and bring a new richness to their relationships. It can also be a time filled with complex and mixed emotions as many people experience a sense of loss for their previous 'self' and learn to cope with deep exhaustion and the constant physical and emotional demand of caring for a small baby. 'Bonding with Baby' classes were designed to acknowledge the shared experience of new parents and promote a positive emotional connection between parents and their babies. It will seek to empower new parents and help build confidence as they embark on their parenting journey. This will be complimented by gentle sensory activities and guided interactions with your baby aimed to help encourage attachment, along with a feeling of security and calm. Join us for gentle age-appropriate activities for infants, involving sensory stimulation through music, touch and play, encouraging connection and promoting attachment. Through discussion, sharing and exploration of topics relevant to parenthood, we will also acknowledge the importance of emotional wellbeing and support for new parents in building bonds with their babies. During the term, we will explore the topics, such as: - The transition to motherhood - Expectations versus reality - The role of the father/partner - Caring for your baby: sleep, feeding and more... - The importance of self-care... who has time for self-care!? - Responsive parenting and why it is important - Parenting with PACE (play, acceptance, curiosity and empathy) - Routines and parenting styles - Changing relationships - Decision-making as parents - It's okay to cry! (and not just the baby) - What is a 'perfect mother' and does she really exist?! This class is designed for parents and their babies, up to about 8 months old, before they become mobile. Once they are more stimulated by movement and play, they would more be more suited to SMALL Sense-ations, a creative sensory class for older babies and toddlers. "Angie created a safe and supportive space to connect with other first time mums and chat about the ups and downs of new motherhood. Angie’s group provided reassurance, comfort and laughter during a challenging time." - Amy, Newborn Mums participant