Becoming a parent can be one of the most special times in someone’s life, but it can sometimes bring concerns and worries and it is important to know that you and your partner are not on your own - you can speak to family, friends, GP or your health visitor.

The first year of your baby's life is so important for their health and development. Babies learn to focus their vision, reach out, explore, and learn about things that are around them and are also developing bonds of love and trust with their parents and others as part of their social and emotional development.  Spending time with your baby playing, singing, reading, and talking are very important, as is good nutrition, exercise, and sleep.

Part of any baby’s emotional development involves crying and it is their way of telling you they need comfort and care. For more information on coping with babies crying visit: ICON Cope

There is information and advice to help you and your baby during their first 12 months. 

Please select the relevant boxes below for further information. Some of these will take you to external websites, in order to find out local services to support you please come back to this website.

If you have urgent concerns about the safeguarding of a baby or toddler please contact the Children's First Response team or if you have health concerns call 111.