Baby Week returns to Cumberland on Saturday 14 November, with activities, practical advice and opportunities for parents and carers to discover local support. Free drop in launch events at Carlisle and Whitehaven libraries will give families the chance to enjoy activities together and meet teams who support them during pregnancy and the early years.
Now in its second year, the programme celebrates the theme Chat, Play, Read, showing how everyday moments together can help babies and young children develop communication and social skills.
On Saturday 14 November, families can meet Peppa Pig at Carlisle Library, in The Lanes, from 10.30am to 2.30pm, or Paddington Bear at Whitehaven Library, on Lowther Street, from 10am to 2pm.
Both launch events will offer storytelling sessions and free story sack making, with families able to take their own story sack home. Local teams and partner organisations will also be on hand to offer advice on babies, parenting and family life.
The events are for children aged up to five and their families, as well as expectant parents. Both are free to attend, with no booking needed: families can simply drop in.
All eight Cumberland Family Hubs will host Baby Week activities, including Baby Buddies sessions for babies aged up to 12 months and Little Learners sessions for children aged up to five. Families can enjoy hands-on activities, stories and songs.
Other highlights include:
- Baby Takeover at Tullie, Carlisle, Thursday 19 November: sensory play, art activities, treasure baskets, stories, singing and a baby trail around the museum. Drop in 10 am – 4 pm. Free day entry is available for up to two adults bringing a child aged two or under.
- Story hunt walk and active story session, Friday 20 November, 9.30am to 11am: meet at Family Hub on the Harbour, Whitehaven to join an interactive story walk along the harbour finding clues along the way before returning to the hub for more story activities.
- Baby first aid sessions: Daisy First Aid will lead sessions covering first aid essentials for babies from birth to one year at Valley Family Hub, Whitehaven, on Tuesday 17 November, 1.30pm to 2.30pm, and Petteril Bank Family Hub, Carlisle, on Thursday 19 November, 10.30am to 11.30am. £5. These sessions are part-funded by Cumberland Council Family Hubs and must be booked in advance.
Cllr Emma Williamson, Deputy Leader and Children's Services, Family Wellbeing and Housing Portfolio Holder for Cumberland Council, said:
“Pregnancy and the early days of parenthood can bring plenty of questions. We want families to know there is someone to turn to for advice, reassurance or a friendly conversation.
“Baby Week is a chance to meet other parents and carers, enjoy activities with your little one and discover local support. Whether you are expecting a baby or have a young child, we would love you to join us.”
Explore the full Baby Week programme in Cumberland at babyweek.co.uk/cumberland/.