Baby week Bradford took place from 14 – 20 November this year with events taking place across Bradford District. The theme of this year was ‘Caring for you … Caring for baby’ because self-care is a must when caring for your little one.
The events took place in locations including a toddler takeover, baby massage events and sensory story times. There were two warm up events at Darley Street Market and Airedale Shopping Centre. These were a ‘sneak preview’ of the week with markets stalls, breastfeeding support and a baby rave!
Over 14 maternity circles took place over the week including in Bradford, Keighley, Ilkley and Shipley. These circles focused on the ‘Caring for … Caring for baby’ theme with activities such as maternal journaling, massages, designing baby vests and eating healthy snacks. The circles also had guests such as who support dads to feel informed, involved, and emotionally connected, 50 Things do before you turn 5, a menu of activities for families with young children and who help make it easier for everyone to live healthier more active lives.
The maternity circles were a huge success! With over 150 Mums with babies attending. Feedback from people who attended the circles was positive with people feeling reassured and keen to come back to the circles:
“I really enjoyed myself today, I feel more positive and will start coming to the sessions”
“I had a lot of fun designing my baby vest and enjoyed the healthy food and hand massage, thank you.”
“Can we do this again?”
Aliya Fazil, Reducing Inequalities Manager (Core20PLUS5) said: “The maternity circles are a great opportunity for families to come together for support and advice. They offer a safe space to ask questions, access resources and meet other families.
“We are so pleased with the success of our circles during Baby week Bradford and hope to see more families attending the circles.”
The circles take place every week, they support families from pregnancy right up until when baby is 2 years old. Find out where your nearest circle is here: Directory Search Page | Bradford Families and Young Persons