Come to an alternative antenatal class: psychologists, health professionals and new parents discuss realities of new parenthood.
Hosted by Sarah Foley, Sooz Imrie, Elian Fink and Kitty Jones from the Centre for Family Research.
Honest conversations with new parents: Transitions, tensions & triumphs
From this summer, all new parents in Scotland will receive a baby box packed with items to assist in practical care for newborns, but both self-care and emotional care for infants have yet to receive similar support. Antenatal classes typically focus on the birth - expectant parents are often overwhelmed by advice available from websites, books, friends and families.
By bringing together an exciting mixed panel of psychologists, mental health professionals, parent bloggers, and new parents, this event aims to stimulate honest conversations surrounding the realities of new parenthood. Expectant and new parents will hear 'hot-off-the-press' research results; practical tips from local health and relationship professionals and support groups; and anecdotes from new parents.
The event stems from interviews conducted as part of an ESRC-funded study with 200 couples across the transition to parenthood. During pregnancy these parents-to-be discussed their hopes, fears and imagined parental roles, and reflected on these expectations during infancy and toddlerhood. By moving beyond birth, the discussion will be guided by these interviews and cover contrasts between the expectations and realities of new parenthood and, importantly, parent self-care.
Coffee and cake after the session provides an opportunity to continue conversations and meet other new parents and local parent support groups. Parent resources that expand upon the research and discussion will be distributed afterwards to all who attend.
We hope the interactive nature of the event - with questions to the panel and an opportunity to meet and chat to both panellists and other parents, ensures an informative and engaging experience.
Click here for more details and to register to attend.