Join a first-time parent group

Parents and children

Our first-time parent groups meet in-person at our maternal and child health (MCH) centres. Both parents are welcome to attend.

Come along and meet other parents and receive valuable support, education and information related to you and your child

To join a first-time parent group, ask your MCH nurse or call 9518 3662.

About our first-time parent groups

Becoming a parent for the first time can be a challenging yet exciting time.

Monash Council organises parents' groups to help first-time parents form connections and support each other. 

Members of parents' groups often forge long-term friendships while gaining valuable support and information.

Held in a relaxed and supportive environment, the groups are facilitated by qualified maternal and child health (MCH) nurses who are happy to answer any questions you may have during these sessions.

What to expect from the program

The topics covered in the group meetings include:

  • What to expect in the early weeks
  • Starting your baby on solids
  • Sleep and settling guidance
  • Family health and more.

When to start attending the group

We recommend parents start attending these groups when their baby is between 1 month and 4 months of age.

We welcome all first-time parents with a baby up to 6 months old.

If your child is older than 6 months, ask your MCH nurse if you can link into an existing older age new parent group. You can also find a local playgroup at www.playgroup.org.au

Program outline

Week 1

  • Group guidelines
  • Getting to know each other: beginning our group
  • A settled baby: What does it mean?

More information:

Week 2

  • Getting to know your baby (baby massage)
  • Baby’s ages and stages: what to expect
  • Play: more than fun and games

More information:

Week 3

  • Library visit
  • Community resources: toy libraries, neighbourhood houses
  • Communicating with your baby through music and books

More information:

Week 4

  • Keeping your child safe: preventing accidents
  • Promote attending a CPR session
  • Managing childhood illness

More information:

Week 5

  • Food: your baby and the family
  • Teething and looking after baby's teeth for life

More information:

Week 6

  • Being a parent: changes and challenges
  • Looking after yourself: exploring parents' health
  • Returning to paid work
  • Where to from here?

More information: