Parenting group Space NZ Trust is set to bring its nationally successful programme to Whanganui.
Aimed at new parents with babies aged to 4 months, the group's Space for You and Your Baby programme will offer parenting and child development techniques for mainly first-time parents, new babies, and their communities.
"The aim is for parents and their babies to learn, connect and flourish," says facilitator Anna Savage.
The 30-week programme will begin weekly sessions for parents and babies at the Christ Church Community Centre facility on Wicksteed St next month.
Whanganui Space NZ Trust facilitator Anna Savage says the parenting-focused programme offers a safe, supportive, and nurturing learning environment.
"As wonderful as parenthood is, it can be daunting and overwhelming at times," Mrs Savage says.
"It's perfectly normal for new parents to feel anxious, unsure, and a wee bit isolated.
"The programme will cover things like communicating with your child, establishing attachment, sleep, learning, and lots more.
"All Whanganui Space NZ Trust programme facilitators and support people are parents and we have all been there before. We are here to stand with and support new parents."
A typical session, lasting about 21/2 hours, will involve settling-in time, a guest speaker or discussion topic, music, rhymes, stories, and craft, as well as morning tea.
Mrs Savage said most of the participants were mothers but sometimes a father or grandparent would attend.
"If you're a new parent and you'd like to be involved in our programme, I'd love to hear from you," Mrs Savage said.
To find out more about the programme call 021 084 18852, or email annaandguysavage@gmail.com