Baby Makes 3
Baby Makes 3 is a group program for first time parents. Over three evening sessions, Baby Makes 3 guides new parents through the practicalities of responding to relationship demands following the birth of a child.
In a safe and supportive group environment, under the guidance of qualified male and female facilitators, new parents are given the space and tools required for sharing the load, improving communication and strengthening their relationship as a couple.
Why focus on relationships?
The arrival of a new baby changes everything – not just lifestyles, but how new parents see themselves and their place in the world. Yet these are only some of the changes that are taking place.
The transition to parenthood also alters the way couples interact with each other and inevitably results in changes to their relationship. These changes are not always obvious, but they are significant, nonetheless.
However, identifying and responding to the changes in your relationship can easily be forgotten amid the overwhelming demands and responsibilities of caring for a new baby.
It is important not to lose sight of how the changes associated with this stage of life may be impacting on your relationship.
Isn’t some relationship strain normal?
Caring for a new baby isn’t always wonderful. It can be a time of high stress that often reveals itself as tension between Mum and Dad, and this can be completely normal. However, if this tension is not addressed it can lead to larger problems further down the track.
Research reveals that many couples look back and say that a greater focus on their relationship after the birth would have been beneficial.
By devoting time to addressing the changes that have taken place it is possible to avoid problems from occurring or getting worse.
Why should we attend?
Contemporary relationships are becoming increasingly complex. The roles of mothers and fathers are not as clearly defined as they were a generation ago. Because of this, today’s new families face added difficulties.
Issues such as dividing housework and childcare, balancing work and family, and managing finances are becoming increasingly complex.
Striking a balance, right from the start, is the best way to move ahead.
Ensuring your relationship as a couple is healthy and constructive is one of the best things you can do for your baby. Research shows that parental harmony is a key factor in healthy child development.
Who is the program for?
The Baby Makes 3 program is for first time parents interested in building and maintaining a healthy relationship throughout parenthood and beyond.
The program is for all couples, regardless of whether they are experiencing any relationship strain or not.
Couples who attend Baby Makes 3 are interested in creating and maintaining a healthy relationship that benefits themselves, their baby and their new family as a whole.
What previous participants have said…
“Well worth it. It helped us talk about topics we were making assumptions about.”
“…very, very helpful. Must attend.”
“A good opportunity to reflect on the changes a new baby has brought and to spend time focussing on improving our relationship as a couple.”
Can we bring our baby?
You are more than welcome to bring your baby.
It may be easier for you to participate and focus on the program if you arrange a babysitter for the night, but generally the presence of babies causes only minor disruptions to the group discussions.
We have found that attending with a baby does not usually restrict mums or dads from participating.
When is it?
New programs begin regularly. The programs run for 3 sessions over 3 weeks, on weeknights, usually from 7pm to 9pm.
Please contact the Baby Makes 3 coordinator to register for an upcoming program.
Places are limited.
Where is it?
Programs are held in local Child and Maternal Health Centres, or similar community locations. Baby-change facilities are available.
Parking is easy.
What does it cost?
It’s free !!
A light supper is provided during each session.
Contact
For further information about the Baby Makes 3 project, to find out when the next group is running, or to register for an upcoming program, please phone 9890 2220 and ask for the Baby Makes 3 Coordinator
Other services
For information about our counselling services please click here, for information about our children’s services please click here.