SPACE (Supporting Parents Alongside Children’s Education) is a programme for first time parents with young babies.

SPACE aims to promote the value of parenthood and offers ongoing support for new families.  Sessions are 2 1/2 hours long and include: opportunities for parents to meet and get to know one another; discussions and information sharing on relevant child development and parenting topics; an introduction to rhymes, music, and books for infants; and play sessions with age-appropriate equipment that supports infants' learning and development.

SPACE sessions are run by qualified facilitators, along with other professionals who come together to share their collective knowledge and experience.

Groups of 12 to 15 parents and their babies meet weekly at a local Playcentre in a relaxed and baby friendly environment for a period of approximately three school terms (each term is 10 weeks long).  Discussion topics may include:

• Getting to know you and your baby
• Understanding me (crying & communication)
• How much is enough? (over stimulation)
• The beauty of the brain
• Uniquely you: understanding temperament
• Sleeping
• Establishing attachment
• What do I see & What do I hear?
• Natural movement
• Heuristic play
• Music

For more details on the SPACE programme nationally, refer to www.space.org.nz

"Space is the highlight of my week." 

            Wellington SPACE parent - May 2008