Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) has been promoting the importance of the first 2,000 days of life at events across the region, with new mums and carers coming together with their babies to participate in a yoga session.
The baby yoga session was held on Wednesday at Intereach Deniliquin.
Renee Bull and Jessica Butcher, Child and Family Health nurses were on hand to support the mums and their little ones.
Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Clinical lead Keryl de Haan said the session would help new mums and carers discover ways to connect with their babies.
“Through these events we want parents and carers to know that the experiences of smiling, playing, talking, cuddling, touching, are all important for baby’s development.
“We believe every child can, and should, thrive by the age of five,” Ms de Haan said.
The events are being held across the district in libraries, health agencies, playgroups and mums and bubs groups throughout June.
The sessions include exercises that allow mums and their bubs to have memorable bonding experiences and build trust with each other.
Local businesses have also contributed to custom gift bags for mums and carers to take home on the day that include a range of mental health and parenting resources.
“Also in the gift bags is a QR code that links to an inspiring TED talk, Molly Wright: How every child can thrive by five.
“This is a great little clip featuring seven year old Molly, which highlights the importance of the first 2,000 days of life and the impact of talking and playing with our babies,” Ms de Haan said.
Our own wellbeing can impact the way we interact with our babies, and parents and carers attending the events will also come away equipped with resources to help them identify when they may need help, and where they can find it.
“Building a community of care is important so that parents and carers feel well supported during pregnancy and after baby is born,” Ms de Haan said.
“If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed, chatting with your GP, maternity nurse or local hospital, child and family health nurse and or other health professional can provide options for where to go next – there’s lots of support out there.”
Information and support can also be found at www.panda.org.au or call the national helpline on 1300 726 306.
Parenting Resources:
•MLHD Child and Family Health Nurses 1800 654 324
•NSW Health – The first 2000 days of life
•Raising Children’s Network – Connecting and communicating with newborns
•Molly Wright: How every child can thrive by five (TED Talk)
Mental Health Resources:
•MLHD Community Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol Service 1800 800 944.
•PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia).
www.panda.org.au.
Helpline 1300 726 306 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 7.30pm).
•Mum Space www.mumspace.com.au; Lifeline 13 11 14; Beyond Blue 1300 224 636; Accessline on 1800 800 944.
•If symptoms are more severe and involve thoughts of harm to oneself or the baby, immediate help is available by attending your local hospital emergency department.