Books for Babies
An early literacy program for mothers and tots under the age of two focusing on encouraging reading and supporting learning at all ages. This program is offered through a partnership with the Council for
Life Long Learning.
Stay tuned for program offering dates.
"Child Safe" First Aid
Two eight hour sessions are offered for certification throughout the year.
November 2nd & 3rd 2010 - 10:00 to 3:00
March 15th & 16th 2011 - 10:00 to 3:00
"First Steps" Nursery
Stimulating, child-centered, nurturing, infant/toddler care is provided free in our nursery five days per week. Child care is provided by a Nursery Manager and a group of committed volunteers. Child care is available for moms who are attending groups or school at the Bridge Network or have specific appointments on site.
Childcare spaces must be requested in advance of attending.
Discussion Group
An interactive group discussion for Bridge Network and Pregnant Teen Program participants. The group is facilitated by Lynn Berry-Barsaloux from Mental Health Services. Charlotte from AADAC Community Outreach Services joins this group as a resource to teens. Lunch is provided.
Breastfeeding Group
Every other Tuesday from 1:00 to 2:30pm.
Information provided before and after baby is born. Individual help can be arranged both at home and while in hospital. Breastfeeding support is provided by peers and an experienced facilitator.
Pregnant Group
Every Thursday from 2:00 to 3:30pm.
The support group encourages members to share information, discover options and explore issues of concern with others in similar circumstances. The group is co-facilitated by a support worker and a mental health therapist. The sessions are structured, yet flexible enough to adapt to the specific needs of each group.
Parenting Group
Every Wednesday from 1:30 to 3:30pm.
This program is intended to provide a framework for parenting teens to establish social networks and improve connections and knowledge of community supports and resources. The group process is informal and frequently uses guest speakers from community agencies for the teaching components. A health nurse attends this support group twice monthly to weigh babies, do immunizations and respond to parents' questions or concerns. This is also an opportunity to update mom's immunization.
Fathers Support
Call to book an appointment.
This one on one support combines time for recreation with practical tips on parenting, relationships or any other topics that would be of value to fathers under 30 years old. Participants can be expecting a child or parenting.
Professional Counseling
Counseling is available on site Thursdays by appointment or drop-in basis with Lynn Berry-Barsaloux, counselor from Mental Health Services.
Continued Education
The Pregnant & Parenting Teen Program is co-located with the Bridge Network and teens are encouraged to follow through with their education whenever possible. Students are able to work on their courses in a classroom space where a teacher is available for instruction and support during regular school hours. Child care is provided Monady to Friday during school hours. Childcare is avaliable because of volunteers under the supervision of our Nursery Manager.
Transportation is also available.
Bridge Network also offers tutor support one evening per week from October through June (Wednesday).
Childcare
Childcare in the "First Steps Nursery" is available:
Monday to Thursday from 9:30 to 3:30 & Friday from 9:30 to 12:00
The Bridge Network
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!
Visit their website: www.gppsd.ab.ca/school/bridgenetwork
Clothing, Toy and Equipment Exchange
FREE!
Provided through trades, exchanges and generous donations from the community. All clothing donations are washed and sorted by our volunteers, then organized in our donations room located in the Pregnant & Parenting Teen Program office area. All donations are free of charge for those participating in the program.
Prenatal & Postnatal Teaching
Providing teens with information on pregnancy health to improve prenatal care and develop strategies for caring for the baby and parenting. Teens expressing interest in the program are given an individual appointment with a health nurse who will assess their current level of health, knowledge and skills related to pregnancy. From there the teen will be enrolled in prenatal classes (these classes are sponsored by the Pregnant Teen Program, dependent on donations). Two postnatal classes are available after the birth of the child. These classes are offered by Public Health nurses or by nursing students.
Support
Family Support Workers are an essential part of our supportive role. Each individual will sign up with a Family Support Worker who is committed to assisting you achieve your goals.
Your Family Support Worker will help you:
