Pregnancy and early months

NHS’ guide to a healthy pregnancy and taking care of your new born

Illness and wellbeing

Common Childhood illnesses: information on recognising, treating and when it gets more serious

Expert advice on looking after your baby from birth to school age

Communication and Language

For when there are concerns: EPUT Speech and Language Therapy

Support and help outside the NHS: I Can

Feeding your child

Breastfeeding:

The Association of Breastfeeding Mothers
The Breastfeeding Network
La Leche League GB
The Multiple Births Foundation
The National Childbirth Trust
Start4Life – With a dedicated section on breastfeeding
The Breasfeeding Companion – Video tutorials at different stages of babies’ development
UNICEF – Support for parents from UNICEF’s Baby Friendly Initiative

After weaning

First Steps Nutrition – Information and resources to support eating well from pre­-conception to five years, including evidence-based information about formula milks.

Start For Life (part of Change4Life) – Sign up for weekly pregnancy, baby and toddler information to give your baby the best start in life. Details on breastfeeding, immunisations

Healthy Start – Sign up for free vitamins and weekly vouchers to spend on milk, fresh and frozen fruit and vegetables and infant formula for eligible pregnant mother and children to the age of four. Ask your Midwife and Health Visitor for more information.

Infant and Toddler Forum – Helpful tips and factsheets on healthy eating during pregnancy, portion sizes for complimentary feeding and tips on fussy eating.

Your wellbeing

Mental health; finding support

Find local activities for you and your child

Local support

Southend’s Family Centres offer a variety of free sessions, services and courses to children aged 0 to 5 years and their families. Providing play sessions, information workshops and parental support from pregnancy. The Family Centres are the hub of services, information and advice for you and your family during the early years.