Pregnancy & parenting support
Having a baby when you are still in school or trying to start work can be challenging. It can also be very rewarding and empowering when you have the right support.
At the Search Light Early Learning Centre, we partner with young mothers to give them the support they need to continue their education while pregnant and parenting. We provide subsidised early education, childcare, parenting education and support as well as information and referral services.
We work closely with other support organisations and can arrange for assistance with health, housing, transport, clothing and baby items, family support and Centrelink services.
Parenting program
We run a weekly Parenting Program and Peer support group for young Mums, giving them the opportunity to connect with other young parents, share experiences, parenting tips and support each other on the parenting journey.
This program includes facilitated group sessions covering a broad range of topics, including; child development, nutrition, positive parent-child interactions, safe relationships, contraception, sexual health, managing children’s behaviour and where to go for help. Mothers and babies also get to participate in swimming lessons, music classes and cultural activities together.
To find out more about our services, contact Sue Chapman, Director on (07) 3344 1056 or email Sue.Chapman@carinity.qld.edu.au.
Looking after you
As a young mother, it is important to take care of yourself. Looking after you is a key topic discussed regularly at the Parenting Program. We ensure all Mums know where and when to seek help and provide an accessible Information and Referral Service connecting families with the relevant service organisations that can help them.
Looking After You is a booklet for new mums that provides lots of practical tips and information about keeping a balance in your life. Being active and eating well helps you to look after your family, your home, your relationships and yourself – and feel great at the same time.
Looking After You: The Deadly Mums Guide to Feeling Great
This booklet has been produced for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mums, aunties and nanas by Women’s Health Queensland Wide and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Services Mackay. If you are an Indigenous woman caring for a young family you will find the information, tips and recipes in The Deadly Mums Guide helpful for keeping a balance in your life.
Helpful links
- Interactive Pregnancy Timeline
- Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond
- Raising Children Network – Young Parents
- Women’s Health Qld Wide Inc.
- Parenting information and resources
- Essential Baby
- Australian Breastfeeding Association
- Kids Safe Qld
- Sids and Kids
- Centrelink support for parents