Parenting groups, programs and information sessions

Drop-in clinics playgroups, and programs

All Maternal and Child Health (MCH) groups are delivered in person. If you have any questions, please contact our MCH services team at [email protected] or call (03) 9278 4606.

Breastfeeding Drop-in Clinics

• 1:30 pm to 3 pm on Mondays at Glen Iris East MCH
• 1:30 pm to 3pm on Thursdays at East Kew MCH.

See the map below for locations. No appointment required.

Chinese supported Playgroups

• Thursday mornings at North Balwyn MCH
• Wednesday mornings at Greythorn MCH

See the map below for locations.

Families need to be enrolled in the playgroup to join. Speak to your MCH nurse for information on how to enrol.

Eligibility:

• Chinese as a first language
• attend Boroondara MCH.

Early parenting day stay program

Our early parenting day stay program offers extra support with early parenting, especially where there are concerns with the sleep, settling and feeding patterns of young babies.

A qualified MCH nurse and an assistant nurse run this program, which takes place on alternate Wednesdays.

To find out more or book a place, visit our Early parenting day stay program page.

Get extra help

We can connect you with other programs if you need extra support, including:

• home visits for families experiencing early parenting difficulties
• lactation clinics for families that need breastfeeding support.

For more information on these programs, email us at [email protected] or call (03) 9278 4606.

Support groups

Joining a support group is a great way to get help and talk about your concerns.

Parenting advice

If you need parenting advice, call the MCH line on 13 22 29 to talk to a qualified MCH nurse. This is a 24/7 service.

This isn't an emergency number. For all emergencies call 000.

Baby's okay, what about you?

This is a free 9-week postnatal depression group that helps you cope with being a new parent. This program runs 3 times a year in conjunction with Camcare. Camcare is a not-for-profit community based organisation that assists people from Boroondara and neighbouring areas who are facing personal hardship or difficult life circumstances.

For more information, contact your MCH nurse.

First-time parents' group

A group for first-time parents where you can talk about parenting issues and make new friends. To join a local group, contact your MCH centre.

Women After Gestational Diabetes

A program designed specifically for women with a history of gestational diabetes. This program provides strategies to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and improve family health. For more information, visit the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute website, email [email protected] or ask your MCH nurse.

Stories of accessing postnatal help in Boroondara

Boroondara mums, Georgia and Lily, sat down with our Maternal Child Health (MCH) service to share their stories and experiences of parenthood. Watch them share their stories in the short videos below.

Maternal and Child Health Centre Locations