Helping new parents find their village

We all know it takes a village to raise a child, and Helen Punton’s goal is making sure every new parent has that village.

“I want to make sure everyone has people to go through the early years alongside,” the Surf Coast Shire Council Child and Family Support Officer said.

Working all over the shire, Helen’s the caring, friendly face facilitating first-time parent groups and local playgroups as well as running Mother Goose Song and Rhyme sessions.

“Our Mother Goose program may seem like it’s just singing songs, but it’s an evidence-based program that strengthens attachment and interaction between parent and child, which brings so many benefits.”

She also offers in-home support and delivers parent education sessions such as sleep and settling, toilet training and fussy eating.

“Becoming a new parent can be isolating and it’s such a vulnerable time, particularly if you’ve just moved to the area.  We create a safe place where families can come, feel supported, connect with others and feel less alone.”

“There are then so many benefits for the parents’ mental health which flows on to the child and supports overall family wellbeing.”

An important part of Helen’s role is linking parents with each other, creating vital support networks.

“I’m like a social connector. Our Maternal and Child Health Nurses will let me know if there’s a new family that has moved here who doesn’t know many people that might come to my group. I’ll greet them, introduce them to other parents and share information on services and resources that may be of benefit to them.”

“You might even meet your future best friend at one of these groups,” she said with a slight laugh, but we have no doubt that this has been the case for many.

It was the same Council service that supported Helen when she first moved to Torquay almost a decade ago, while in the early stages of motherhood.

A mum of three, all born within 20 months - including a set of twins - gives Helen plenty of lived experience to draw on as she supports others.

“The best part about my job is supporting parents to feel good about themselves – positive and a bit lighter – so that they know they’re doing a good job.”

Find out about Council’s early years services.