The ACT Child and Family Centres: Providing Support for Parents and Families
In brief:
- The ACT’s Child and Family Centres offer parenting support and advice.
- Services cater to anyone pregnant and families with children up to 8 years old.
- Centres are conveniently located in Tuggeranong, West Belconnen, and Gungahlin.
Parenting is a journey filled with challenges and uncertainties. Fortunately, the ACT Government’s Child and Family Centres are here to provide a helping hand when needed. These centers offer valuable assistance and advice to support children’s health, wellbeing, learning, and development.
According to Shiobhan Tunks, Team Leader at the Gungahlin Child and Family Centre, the primary focus is on parenting but extends to other aspects of a person’s life. The centers offer a wide range of support services tailored to each family’s needs, and the best part is that all services are completely free.
Three Centres Across Canberra
The Child and Family Centres are strategically located in Tuggeranong, West Belconnen, and Gungahlin. Each center provides families and caregivers with:
- Parenting support and advice
- Child development assessments through the Child Development Service
- Referrals to other health, wellbeing, and support services
- Advice from qualified social workers
- Playgroups and parenting groups
Upon visiting the centers, families will be greeted by caring and welcoming staff members who are ready to discuss available support options. Additionally, amenities such as tea and coffee, a parents’ room, and a children’s play space are available at each location.
Your Questions Answered
Parents can seek guidance on their child’s health, wellbeing, and development at the Child and Family Centres. Shiobhan emphasizes that parenting is a learning process and that the centers can equip parents with new tools to make parenting easier for them and their children.
Most services cater to families with children up to 8 years old, with some services extending support to children up to 12 years old. Services are also accessible during pregnancy and continue after the child’s birth.
Skilled, Compassionate Staff
Shiobhan highlights the rewarding nature of working in a Child and Family Centre, citing the diversity of families and the creativity and flexibility required in the role. Staff members undergo continuous training and supervision to ensure they are providing the best possible support based on evidence-based practices.
To learn more about the Child and Family Centres in Canberra, visit act.gov.au/community/families/child-and-family-centres
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