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The first years of a child’s life are a critical period for healthy brain development, emotional wellbeing, and building a secure, nurturing bond between caregiver and child. Early parenthood can also be a time of major change, affecting relationships, finances, health, independence, and identity.

The First 1000 Days Program supports families through pregnancy, infancy, and toddlerhood, helping parents navigate the challenges and transitions that come with welcoming a new baby.

How the first 1000 days program supports families

Families come to us for guidance, reassurance, and practical help in many areas of early parenting, including:

  • Birth preparation — understanding labour, birth options, and emotional readiness
  • Social isolation and loneliness — building connection and community
  • Sleep and settling — supporting healthy sleep routines for infants and toddlers
  • Play and interaction — strengthening development through responsive play
  • Relationship changes — managing conflict and adjusting to parenthood
  • Infant and toddler development — learning what’s typical and when to seek help
  • Cultural misalignment — supporting migrant families navigating cultural expectations
  • Birth trauma — emotional recovery and compassionate care
  • Caregiver–child bonding — nurturing secure attachment
  • Unplanned pregnancy — non‑judgmental pregnancy support
  • Material aid and financial relief — practical assistance during times of need

A flexible service for when you need it most

The First 1000 Days Program is designed to be flexible and responsive. We tailor our support to your family’s needs, whether you’re preparing for birth, navigating the early weeks with a newborn, or supporting a growing toddler.

Our goal is to help you feel confident, connected, and supported during this important stage of life.

To be eligible

– Must be living in the Western or inner North suburbs of Melbourne

– Must be expecting or have a child 2 years or younger. 

Get in touch

If you’d like to learn more about the First 1000 Days Program, we’d love to hear from you.

Email: FTD@caroline.org.au Phone: 03 9361 700