New editions of childhood health and wellness resources support parents and caregivers to raise healthy, vibrant children

The First Nations Health Authority and National Collaborating Centre for Aboriginal Health re-launch parenting resources grounded in Indigenous Knowledge

The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) and the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health (NCCIH) are pleased to re-launch the following four resources for First Nations and Indigenous parents and caregivers in British Columbia: Growing Up Healthy; Family Connections; Parents as First Teachers; and Fatherhood is Forever.

Originally developed in 2013 by the FNHA and the NCCIH, the 2019 parenting booklets include updated guidelines and resources for parents and caregivers of children up to six years of age. All of the booklets are grounded in Indigenous Knowledge and traditional approaches to parenting and send the message that “Even if you did not have the parenting that you wanted or needed, you can become the parent your child needs.” Each of the booklets shares specific aspects of parenting and childrearing.

• Growing Up Healthy – focuses on the steps parents and caregivers can take to keep infants and children well, through nutrition, physical activity and caring for the body;

• Family Connections – presents information for parents and caregivers on bonding, forming secure attachments with children, and connecting with extended family and community;

• Parents as First Teachers – places emphasis on early childhood development and learning through experience and play; and

• Fatherhood is Forever – discusses the important parenting role of fathers, including learning about being a positive role model for children and some of the different approaches they can take to deal with different situations.

Download the digital booklets on the FNHA’s Maternal, Child and Family Health webpage here or through the links above.