Being a Parent

Adjustment to Parenting

It is common to feel unsure or anxious when there is a new addition to the family of 2 adults. Remind yourself that your role and responsibilities in the family will be different and you need to work together as a couple. Try and plan a few special times together both prior to, and following, the birth. These don't need to be extravagant, simply have a coffee together, or get a takeaway meal (but don't eat it in front of the TV!). With a new child you will have to expect changes in your current day to day routine.

About Self-Care

You can’t always control the circumstances that life throws your way, but you can control how well you take care of yourself. Being healthy is important both for you and your child. For further information see our Healthy You Healthy Baby section.

Increased Need for Support

Don’t be afraid to ask for help and support as taking care of a new baby and having broken sleep can be exhausting. Identify who you can call on for advice and support and discuss it with them prior to birth. This will help your peace-of-mind that your support person will be ready and able to provide that support when you need it. Make a plan for how you can deal with busy times in the household such as meal times, bath and bedtimes, appointments, chores, busy work times and time out for you. This can assist with letting you know when you might need to call on your support. Don't forget to connect to and use resources in the community such as Ngala Helpline, Community Nurses etc. Enlist services for support including nappy service, on-line shopping and cleaner if and when the budget allows.

Go to the Ngala Healthy You Healthy Baby App
Track your health and wellbeing during pregnancy and during the early stages of your child's life and receive tips on how to improve or maintain your health. 

• • Nutrition
  • Weight
  • Emotions
  • Social Life
  • Sleep
  • Physical Activity
  • Parents Who Work Away
  • Top Ten Tips for Stressed Out Parents
  • Choosing Quality Child Care

Parenting Workshops

• • Managing a Toddler and a Baby
  • You and Your New Baby
  • Skilled Dads
  • Sleep and Your Baby
  • You and Your New Baby
  • Growing baby

Ngala Books & DVDs

• • Secrets of Good Sleepers Book
  • Secrets of Good Eaters Book
  • Building Brains for Young Children 0-3 Years DVD

For families of babies and young children who reside or work in W.A.,
if you need further assistance contact the Ngala Helpline
Telephone 9368 9368 or Country Access 1800 111 546
8am to 8pm 7 days a week or

or get support online via the My Ngala Forums

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