Parenting Education and Support

The online prenatal program is designed to help parents and their partners/support persons prepare for labour, childbirth and caring for their new baby. The modules within the program provide evidence-based information on prenatal care, labor & birth, postpartum, breastfeeding, and newborn care including videos.

All Babies Count prenatal nutrition program is a free weekly program for parents of all ages who need extra support during their pregnancy. Expecting parents learn about nutrition, pregnancy and parenthood.

The Healthy Babies Healthy Children program (HBHC) is a home visiting program. HBHC provides eligible families with information, support and connections to community resources.

Free breastfeeding support is available through virtual video conferencing sessions or at one of York Region’s in-person breastfeeding clinics. Sessions are one-to-one with a nurse who has breastfeeding expertise.

Pregnancy or having a baby is not always easy. The adjustment to parenthood can be challenging for many families. This can lead to mood changes or even perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMAD). The Transition to Parenting program is a nine-week, group-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) program for pregnant and parenting mothers with babies up to 18 months of age. It is for moms who have been feeling one or more of the following: depressed, sad, anxious, worried, angry or overwhelmed.

Children depend on their parents and other caregivers to help them grow and develop. When parents know what to expect at each stage of development, it can be easier for them to meet their child's needs and understand their behaviour. The Looksee Checklist is an easy-to-use tool designed to help monitor a child’s development from one month to six years of age. It features a short list of “yes” or “no” questions about the child’s abilities, with parenting tips to promote ongoing development. It also includes important skills that a child should master by a particular age and touches on all areas of development. It is available in multiple languages.

Early childhood experiences shape children’s brain development and positive, nurturing relationships play a vital role. Learn how to promote children’s healthy brain development and to help better prepare them for school. The Basics Principles are fun, simple, and powerful ways to help all our children aged 0-3 grow to be happy and smart. Do all five principles every day to help your child become the amazing person you know they can be. 

EarlyON child and family programs are family support hubs offering free, inclusive and welcoming programs for parents, caregivers and young children from birth to six years old. These high-quality programs are designed to cater to the diverse needs of families and children.

A positive relationship with food starts early in life. How you approach feeding and mealtimes is just as important as what you offer. Find tips for feeding that will support your child’s nutrition, feeding skill development and an overall healthy relationship with food

The Canadian Dental Association recommends parents schedule their child’s first dental visit within six months of the eruption of the first tooth or by their first birthday.

Bring your child to a Public Health dental clinic to receive their first dental visit with a Registered Dental Hygienist, free of cost.

Your health and the health of your child can be impacted by violence. Healthy relationships are based on equality and respect. Know the signs of abuse.