Resources for New Parents: Welcoming Your First Baby

Welcome to the Brookfield Board of Health's New Parents Resource page. Becoming a parent for the first time is an exciting and transformative experience. To support you in this journey, we've compiled a list of resources to help you navigate the challenges and joys of welcoming your first baby.

Pregnancy and Childbirth

1. American Pregnancy AssociationWebsite: www.americanpregnancy.org

   • Description: Provides information on pregnancy health, wellness, and stages, as well as tips for a healthy pregnancy.

2. March of Dimes

   • Website: www.marchofdimes.org
   • Description: Offers resources on prenatal care, labor and delivery, and newborn care.

Newborn Care

1. HealthyChildren.org

   • Website: www.healthychildren.org
   • Description: An American Academy of Pediatrics resource with information on newborn care, feeding, and development.

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Infant Care

   • Website: www.cdc.gov/parents/infants
   • Description: Provides guidelines and tips on infant care, including safety, health, and development.

Breastfeeding Support

1. La Leche League International

   • Website: www.llli.org
   • Description: Offers breastfeeding support, information, and resources for new mothers.

2. Women's Health - Breastfeeding

   • Website: www.womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding
   • Description: Provides breastfeeding tips, common challenges, and health benefits information.

Parenting Education and Support

1. Zero to Three

   • Website: www.zerotothree.org
   • Description: Offers resources on early childhood development, parenting, and early learning.

2. Parenting Now

   • Website: www.parentingnow.org
   • Description: Provides parenting education and support for families with young children.

Local Resources

1. WIC Program (Women, Infants, and Children)

   • Website: Massachusetts WIC Program     
   • https://www.mass.gov/orgs/women-infants-children-nutrition-program 
   • Description: WIC is a nutrition program that provides healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to healthcare and other services free of charge to Massachusetts families who qualify.

2. Parents Helping Parents offers in-person parent support groups in various locations, including Gloucester, Lawrence, and Roxbury. They provide a supportive environment for parents to discuss their challenges and experiences. More information can be found on their website Parents Helping Parents.

3. YMCA Family & Community Partnership provides weekly programs for families, including some in-person programming. You can check their Facebook page for updates on events and programs.

4. Family Resource Centers (FRCs) in Massachusetts offer a range of programs for families, including parenting classes, support groups, early childhood services, and information and referral resources. To find an FRC near you, visit the FRC website and enter your city, state, or zip code.

5. One Tough Job connects parents in Massachusetts with parenting information and resources. You can search for resources by your child's age or by topic, and enter your zip code to find nearby organizations and programs. Visit One Tough Job for more information.

6. Healthy Families Massachusetts provides support and resources for young, first-time parents, including workshops on parenting skills, playgroups, and social events. The program serves families with children up to 3 years old. Visit Healthy Families Massachusetts to find a program near you.

7. Parenting Education and Support Programs help parents with young children develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to be the best parents they can be. Check the Children's Trust website to find a parenting group near you.

Remember, you're not alone in this journey. There are many resources available to help you and your baby thrive. Don't hesitate to reach out for support and information.