Parenting is one of the most challenging, demanding and rewarding jobs.
Some useful links that can help:
- Tips for new parents on the NHS website
- Look, say, sing, play - Brain-building tips on the NSPCC website
- Dealing with child behaviour problems on the NHS website
- Weaning information on the Start 4 Life website
- How to potty train on the NHS website
Children's Centres and Family Hubs
General advice and support is free through Children’s Centres, Family Hubs or health visitors.
Find a list of Children's Centres and Family Hubs on the Plymouth Online Directory.
Any Plymouth parent can access Barnardo’s online Virtual Family Space which has a wealth of resources covering pregnancy, childhood and adolescence, with specialist advice for parents of young people with additional needs up to the age of 25.
Health Visiting on the Livewell Southwest website.
If children fall behind in their speech, they can catch up if given extra support early. If a delay continues you can find out more information from Livewell South West's Children’s Speech and Language Service.
Peep stay and play
Peep groups and Stay and play sessions are a time for young children, parents, carers and practitioners to have fun playing, talking, singing, and sharing books and stories. Peep groups are a great opportunity to get to know other families, and to share some of the ups and downs of life with small children.
Video Interaction Guidance (VIG)
Video Interaction Guidance (VIG) is a technique for improving communication in situations where it naturally occurs, building on each individual's unique style by concentrating on what is effective.
Support for parents
Local support groups for parents.
The Plymouth Online Directory has lists of groups and organisations that support parents.
Support for dads
Support for dads to help build parenting confidence.
The BBC's Tiny Happy People has Dad Life: Building your confidence as a dad and advice for new dads feeling left out during pregnancy.
Other useful links
Links to groups and organisations and services that offer support for young people on the Plymouth Online Directory.
Action for children has Parent Talk - Down-to-earth parenting advice you can trust.