Programs for Parents with Babies
Programs for Parents with Babies
Welcoming a new baby into your family is an exciting time filled with sweet moments, laughter and joy. Still, there is no doubt that babies present many new challenges. It can help to be surrounded by others who are experiencing the highs and lows of parenting a baby; to understand your joy and your challenges as they navigate them too.
We are here to help you connect with other parents and families in the community.
You can join our free parent and baby programs any time you’re ready. Click the program names below find out more.
Postpartum Mood Disorder (PPMD) Peer Support Group, phone and email
If you are a mom who is experiencing difficulties adjusting to life with a new baby or is coping with Postpartum Mood Disorder (PPMD), support is available.
It’s not easy to reach out for support – we’re so glad you’re here.
At BridgeWay, we have a Postpartum Mood Disorder Peer Support Group as well as a phone number and email address you can contact for support and resources. All services are free, no registration required.
Our PPMD Peer Support Group is a judgement-free space where you can talk about how you feel or just sit and listen to others. Child-minding is provided in the centre during the program; you are also welcome to bring your baby with you into the group. This group is available at our Heart Lake, Brittany Glen and Turtle Creek EarlyON locations. Find out more about our PPMD Peer Support Group.
If you have any concerns about changes in your mood or well-being, we are here to listen. You can phone or text 647-913-8410. The line is answered between 9:00am and 4:00pm Monday to Friday. Email [email protected] for free, confidential support and resources.
Please note that our services are not monitored 24/7. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call the 24/7 Crisis Support Line run by Canadian Mental Health Association’s Peel Dufferin branch at 905-278-9036. See our mental health resource list for other urgent and non-urgent mental health services in Peel.
You and Your Baby
Becoming a mom is a life-changing experience, filled with both joy and challenges. There’s no better support than connecting with someone who’s going through it themselves. In You and Your Baby, you’ll meet other moms to share in the ups and downs of having a new baby. During this six-week program, we’ll explore a variety of topics, some of which include: birth experiences/baby’s arrival, adjusting to life with a baby, and how relationships can change once your little one arrives.
Click here for details and to register. Scroll to ‘Events and Workshops’ to select one of the upcoming dates. After you click your preferred date/location, click ‘Register Now’.
Mom’s Chat
During this relaxed chat session you can share your thoughts and concerns about parenting, ask questions, and meet other moms in your community. If you don’t want to share, that’s ok! Come and listen instead. Moms with children birth to 24 months are welcome to join Mom’s Chat.
Click here to find a Mom’s Chat near you! Scroll to ‘Locations Offered’ and enter your address or postal code to find the centre closest to you.
Just for Dads
Join us at Just for Dads where you can connect with other fathers that are also learning more about their role as a parent. Come share your thoughts and concerns about parenting, ask questions, and meet other dads in your community.
Just For Dads is open only to fathers who are expecting a baby or have a child birth to 6 years of age.
Click here for details and to register. Scroll to ‘Events and Workshops’ to select one of the upcoming dates. After you click your preferred date/location, click ‘Register Now’.
Infant Mother Goose
Songs, rhymes and finger play can help soothe your baby; they love to feel your touch and hear your voice! Join Infant Mother Goose for a fun circle time where you and your baby can connect through songs and stories. Meet other families in your community, discuss parenting, and share community resources. Moms, dads and caregivers with infants birth to 12 months are welcome!
Click here to find an Infant Mother Goose near you! Scroll to ‘Locations Offered’ and enter your address or postal code to find the centre closest to you.
Infant Massage
In this 5-week program, you and your baby can explore a fun way to bond and connect through Infant Massage! For infants, touch is one of the first ways that they are able to interact with their environment and communicate with you. Through simple massage techniques you will learn a new stroke each week, while also learning about your baby’s individual cues and responses. This program also includes a discussion component to help build confidence and connect with other parents!
Click here for details and to register. Scroll to ‘Events and Workshops’ to select one of the upcoming dates. After you click your preferred date/location, click ‘Register Now’.
Infant Feeding Support
Do you have questions about breastfeeding/chestfeeding, pumping, bottle feeding, formula feeding or combo feeding? Our Registered Lactation Consultant provides free infant feeding support at EarlyON Centres. Parents and caregivers with infants can drop in to ask questions and share concerns. Our lactation consultant will help guide you through your infant feeding goals.
Learn more about Infant Feeding Support here! Scroll to ‘Events and Workshops’ for the upcoming dates and locations.
We also offer parenting workshops that explore a wide range of parenting topics! Topics can include: baby-led weaning, introducing solids, car seat safety and more. See a list of all upcoming workshops here!