Happy parents/happy kids: The Parents As Teachers program at St Anthony’s Family Care has benefited Estella Benjamin and one-year-old Nate. ‘‘He’s developing beautifully,’’ said program co-ordinator Helen Cooper (right). Picture: Gary Warrick
ST ANTHONY’S Family Care offers a free program to support parents until their children reach age three.
The Parents as Teachers program consists of monthly home visits, when an educator discusses child development and suggests activities for joint play.
Family Care manager Helen Cooper is looking for more participants.
She says it gives young and first-time mums a better understanding of the role they play in nurturing their children.
‘‘You don’t need expensive toys,’’ Mrs Cooper said.
‘‘We have a lot of information to share. It’s a relaxed program that can be done at your own pace and involves no study.’’
The program was funded by St Marys Band Club and Kingswood Sports. It has been running since St Anthony’s Family Care opened its St Marys office a year ago to cater for the growing demand for family services.
St Marys mum Estella Benjamin is one of eight parents in the program.
Sudanese-born Mrs Benjamin has been part of the program since Nate was two-months-old.
‘‘It teaches me how to take care of Nate,’’ she said. ‘‘It has helped me keep him busy. Nate loves other kids.’’
The family also attends a playgroup for children up to age five at St Anthony’s on Mondays from 10.30am. A second playgroup is at Penrith Public School on Fridays.
‘‘Some parents are stuck in the house so it’s good for them to get out, giving them and their children a chance to socialise,’’ Mrs Cooper said.
Details: 9623 3145 or visit safc.org.au.