Dedicated space for parents and children to meet, learn and share – a new look for The Nest

Go Goldfields is preparing to re-launch The Nest, a dedicated space for parents and children to meet, learn and share – at the Maryborough Resource Centre (in the former Visitor Information Centre space).

The space officially opened to the public on Tuesday 12 July at 10am with morning tea and free activities for families, with Manager of Go Goldfields Carolyn Bartholomeusz saying there was a need for an accessible, welcoming and culturally safe place to meet other parents and get resources to support them in their important role as parent.

 

“The Nest is an important demonstration project of the Every Child, Every Chance initiative of Go Goldfields”.

 

The space is a welcoming and supporting place where families can meet other parents, find information and resources to assist with parenting. They can also breastfeed, change nappies, warm up baby bottles and food in the kitchen and register for activities and parenting groups. 

 

Assistance with kinder registrations is also available. Drop in times for the service are every Tuesday from 10am to 1pm, Thursdays from 1 to 2.30pm and Friday 10am to 1pm.

 

As part of re-launch, The Nest will host ‘Being a Parent’ a nine-week free parenting program for parents and carers of children aged 2 to 11 years of age.

 

Led by local parents, the program will be a caring space where families can share and learn practical communication skills for everyday life to bring up happy and confident children.

 

The program commenced the week beginning Monday 11 July and includes free childcare and food. Transport has been made available to those who need it.

 

Families completing the course will learn new skills for:

 

• Understanding behaviour
• Accepting and acknowledging feelings
• Play
• Listening and clear communication
• Labels and praise
• Discipline strategies

 

For more information, and to keep up to date with events and activities follow The Nest on Facebook.  

 

Pictured are Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas MP, community leader Caroline Thoroughgood and her two-year-old daughter Penny.