I was supporting a birth on labour ward recently and while we were there I noticed three different public health posters all claiming that if parents did or asked for X it would be “the best gift you could give to your baby”.
It really got me thinking, not least about what the person sticking them up had been thinking, or health promotion budgets/creativity, operating in silos…I digress.
Is there one single “best gift” we can give children in the perinatal period?
I think for me, caring for my mental health is it. There isn’t any other action I can take that has such a deep and expansive impact on my kids well-being.
Musing on the question has been affirming for me with regards to my self care and my work.
Postnatal care and support are essential for parental health. So many of us are parenting without the traditional “village” or family structure we need to journey through this phase of our lives positively. Being able to bridge that gap and show up for new parents is an honour. I’m so proud and grateful to be doing this work ✨💫🌟
What about you? Is there one single best gift you gave your baby? The posters covered optimal cord clamping, breastfeeding and stopping smoking, in case you are wondering!
Comments