Family & whānau

The arrival of a baby brings many changes to a family and whānau.

All families differ, depending on their situation, culture, traditions and support available. Family, whānau and community support are important parts of raising a child.

Family and whānau support is an important part of raising a child and the involvement of family, whānau and friends often varies depending on how close or far away they are.

Lack of sleep and the demands of parenting can put a strain on your relationships with your partner, children, family, whānau and friends. Talking about these feelings can bring family closer together. As with any time of major change, there are stresses involved and it is important that you allow time to adjust to your new family roles. It may help to talk about your concerns and problems with others.

Family, whānau and friends involved in the care of your child or who give you advice will have their own ideas on caring for children. Sometimes these are the same as your ideas, sometimes they may be different.

It may help to discuss ideas and feelings about the best ways to care for your child so your child has consistent care from all those who love and care for them.

More information

Becoming a parent changes our lives in so many ways. On the Raising Children In New Zealand website, parents talk honestly and openly about their experience of moving from ‘me’ to ‘we’, and about their hopes and dreams for their children.