YWCAs support parents in their challenging roles. 

A snapshot of some Australian YWCA parenting programs and services:

Palmerston Parenting Programs, YWCA of Darwin

The YWCA of Darwin's Palmerston and Rural Parenting Support Service helps parents by offering free, practical family support and information and connecting families to community services.

The service offers a range of programs throughout the year including:

  • Outreach education program for pregnant women or women with young children who would like to finish their high school education (includes childcare).
  • Positive parenting information offering practical ideas and information about parenting, child development and children's behaviour.
  • Sheira - a fortnightly peer support group for young pregnant women or young mothers with children 0-5 years, including activities and outings.
  • A father's group which offers support to fathers with children.

Communities for Children, YWCA NSW

The Australian Government has engaged YWCA NSW as the facilitating partner for a community development initiative called Communities for Children for Lismore and Murwillumbah in Northern NSW.

Communities for Children provides support for local communities to develop early childhood initiatives. This project focuses on supporting the health and early development needs of young children aged 0-5 years, supporting parents and building child-friendly communities.

YWCA Communities for Children’s vision is that Lismore and Murwillumbah will support their children to have the best possible start in life so that they arrive at school happy, healthy and ready to learn.

Moving Mums, YWCA Victoria (Geelong)

Moving Mums is a ten week program assisting mothers to create a healthy life for them and their child/children, including regular exercise and healthy eating and behaviour.

Facilitated by experienced instructors, Moving Mum consists of  fun activities for both the mothers and their children in a positive environment.

inspYre Young Mother’s Mentoring Program, YWCA Hunter Region

This program works with hospitals and community service agencies in the region to connect pregnant and parenting young women who are vulnerable or at risk of marginalisation with caring mentors in the community.

'Mum Dad Baby' Parenting Toolkit, YWCA NSW

Many young parents in Shoalhaven area of NSW don't have family members to support them. These young families are often isolated geographically and socially from the community and mainstream support services and resources.

In response, YWCA NSW produced Mum, Dad, Baby - a true grass roots resource of information for parents.

Mum, Dad, Baby was developed in consultation with the community and students participating in a parenting course at YWCA NSW.