Support for new parents
Education program for new parents
What is it?
Family Foundations is a 10-week program for those that have, or are having a baby.
Two qualified and experienced parent coaches will visit you and your partner (or whoever you are co-parenting with), once a week in your home.
You will learn about:
- How to strengthen your relationship with your partner and build a strong parenting team
- How to adjust to your new role as a parent
- How to match your parenting to your baby’s unique temperament
- How to help your baby feel secure, which is important for their future mental health
Who can use this service?
Anyone that:
- Is having a baby
- Has a baby under 12 months old
You must also live in the West or North of Melbourne with priority given to those living in Wyndham, Brimbank, Moreland and Hume.
Cost
It’s free.
Do I need a referral?
No. You do not need a referral to access this support.
Location
We will visit you in your home.
Make a booking
Call our Family Foundations Intake Worker on 9355 9901 or email family.foundations@merrihealth.org.au.
More information
What is a parent coach?
A parent coach is an experienced and trained staff member from Merri Health.
When should I join?
We recommend doing 5 sessions before baby arrives and 5 after baby comes home. If you already have baby at home, you can still jump on board!
What if I can’t meet at the same time every week?
That’s not a problem! We are flexible about our visiting times and will negotiate to fit in with your family circumstances.
I’m finding it hard to leave my home with a new-born baby. Can you still help me?
Yes. You don’t have to leave your home to attend the program – we come to you!
How do I know if this program is right for me?
We can talk through your needs and work out if it’s right for you.
This service is funded by the Victorian Government and is supported by the Murdoch Children's Research Institute.
