Since 2014, the Connecting2u service has supported thousands of parents and carers across Queensland, offering timely and practical advice on early parenting of children up to five years of age. Now, this invaluable service has evolved to support parents to be across Queensland with information, tips, and health reminders as they navigate the exciting, and sometimes overwhelming, journey of pregnancy.
The new antenatal messaging includes tips on nutrition and emotional wellbeing, reminders about care options, self-care advice, important health checks and scans. Messaging is also culturally tailored to parents and carers who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
For parents like mum-of-one Janet Lor from Heritage Park, Connecting2u has proven to be an invaluable parenting tool.
“I was first introduced to Connecting2u through my midwife. She recommended it to me as a great service to help keep track of immunisations and to receive other information. I thought that was great, but it ended up being so much more,” Ms Lor said.
“Some of the messages I received about my child’s development reminded me that they’ve only just come into this world, and they are still developing and learning.
“As a parent, you always want to have a strong voice to advocate for your baby and Connecting2u gives your baby that voice.
“Connecting2u’s new antenatal messaging service is a wonderful tool to help guide parents in their pregnancy journey. It’s a voice that not only reminds you of what stage you’re in but also to help create a bond.”
Connecting2u Principal Program Officer, Alanna Philipson, said the new antenatal messaging would help expectant parents navigate the challenges and unknowns of pregnancy.
“Connecting2u offers clear, evidence-based, and reassuring messages designed help reduce the overwhelm many expectant parents face during pregnancy,” Ms Philipson said.
“Feedback from families tells us there is a need for this kind of information and support, and we’re pleased to make it easily accessible to all Queensland families when and where they need it.”