For some families, home visiting may not be the most appropriate method of support.

Our Family Groups meet once a week during school term-time and normally last for around 2 hours. They provide a regular meeting place for families with at least one child under 5 years old although most children attending the Groups are under 3 years old.

 

There are activities for both parents and children and the atmosphere is always welcoming and friendly. The Groups allow parents to make new friends, explore new interests and grow in self-confidence and belief.

 

Experienced Home-Start staff organise the activities and are on hand to listen to any problems or issues that may arise. Drinks and a healthy snack for the children are provided free of charge.

 

Each week there are craft and play activities for the children and throughout the term special events are organised such as rhythm ‘n’ rhyme, visits from dental hygienists, teddy bears picnics and cookery sessions for the mums. Special dates in the calendar are also celebrated such as “dooking” for apples at Halloween and making cards for Christmas and Easter. A summer outing is held each year and our Christmas party, complete with a visit from Santa, rounds off the winter term. Everything is free.

 

The Family Groups are held in

 

 

Mums in Mind is a group for post-natally depressed mothers with young babies. Mums can attend baby massage, to help with the bonding process, and may also have the opportunity to join small group counselling sessions run by an experienced practitioner.

 

 

For more information on any of the Groups, please speak to your Health Visitor or contact us at the Home-Start Perth office.