Support Teams for New Parents

Adjusting to parenthood does not occur instantaneously. It may take three to six months and up to two years before new parents feel comfortable caring for their child. For some parents, it can take up to two years before they feel completely comfortable in their new role as a parent. For many parents, the primary source of support is their partner. However, it's important to have more than one person to go to for help or guidance. In fact, new parents need two support networks - one focused on healthcare and well being and one focused on personal needs like emotional support and assistance at home or in the community.

While your partner may be your primary source of support, it can often be helpful to expand personal support network. Think about asking family members, friends, neighbours and co-workers to support you. Other members of your personal support network may include a social worker, doula (trained labour and post partum assistant), community groups, cultural or religious congregations and other expectant families, such as people you met during pre-natal classes. This is particularly true if you’re a single parent. Having a network of friends, other parents, neighbours and relatives to call for help might make a massive difference – you don’t have to do it alone.

There’s no ‘right’ way of doing it, so don’t be too harsh on yourself if things work out differently from how you’d planned. Your role as a parent is valuable, you're much stronger than you think you are, you are a Superhero

Abbotsford Early Years Centre is here to be part of your personal support network.

The Abbotsford Early Years Centre, located in the Sweeney Neighbourhood Centre adjacent to Abbotsford Senior Secondary, is a one-stop location for parents to find out information about learning, health and family services - including: child care, parenting, child development, referrals for social supports, special needs services, early intervention therapies, and public health services.

Phone: 778-880-8554

Email: abbyearlyyears@gmail.com

Location:
Sweeney Neighbourhood Centre (1st Floor)
33355 Bevan Way
Abbotsford, BC V2S 0E7

*Adjacent to Abbotsford Library and Abbotsford Senior Secondary