Athy New Baby Group Launches – Parent Support
- A new drop-in support group for parents of babies under one year old has begun meeting in Kildare,offering a range of services from breastfeeding support to mindful parenting...
- Breastfeeding Counsellor Aoife Kelly explained that the group, which held its first two sessions recently, was created to fill a gap in services available to parents with new...
- The sessions operate on a drop-in basis, eliminating the need for pre-registration, and refreshments are provided to create a welcoming atmosphere.
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New Parent Support group Launches in Kildare,Filling Service Gap
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A new drop-in support group for parents of babies under one year old has begun meeting in Kildare,offering a range of services from breastfeeding support to mindful parenting activities. The initiative aims to address a noted lack of resources for this age group.
Addressing a Need for Early Parent support
Breastfeeding Counsellor Aoife Kelly explained that the group, which held its first two sessions recently, was created to fill a gap in services available to parents with new babies under one year old. This initiative responds to a recognized need for more localized and accessible support during the crucial first year of a child’s life.
The sessions operate on a drop-in basis, eliminating the need for pre-registration, and refreshments are provided to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Comprehensive Support Services Offered
Beyond social interaction, the group provides a variety of supports for both baby and parent. These include baby massage classes, which are known to promote bonding and relaxation, tummy time sensory play to aid progress, and mindful parenting activities designed to help parents navigate the challenges of early parenthood. Research from the national Institutes of Health highlights the benefits of baby massage for infant development and parent-child attachment.
The program also integrates professional expertise. A social prescriber is present to connect families with relevant community resources, and health experts such as midwives and public health nurses make regular visits to offer specialized advice and support. Social prescribing is an increasingly common practice in healthcare, recognizing the impact of social factors on health and well-being. The National Health Service (NHS) in England provides further information on this approach.
Aoife Kelly also facilitates monthly breastfeeding support groups as part of the program, providing dedicated assistance to nursing mothers. Cúidiú, the association aoife represents, is a national Irish breastfeeding support network.
A “Wraparound” Approach to Parenthood
“The idea is to create a wraparound service,” Aoife Kelly explained,emphasizing the holistic nature of the support offered. This means providing interconnected services that address the diverse needs of new parents and their babies.
Organizers anticipate the group will continue indefinitely,establishing a consistent and reliable weekly space for parents to connect,learn,and receive support. The long-term sustainability of the group is a key goal, ensuring ongoing access to vital resources for families in Kildare.