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Specific stuff

SPECIFIC / ALL AGES
For: Parents and Carers of tamariki with ADHD - no diagnosis is needed

North Canterbury ADHD Parent and Carer Support Group

This is a parent-led group supported by the Schools Based Mental Health Team. Topics include parenting, education, health and relationships. This group is very inclusive and casual, and warmly welcome other parents, grandparents and carers.
PROVIDER:

Schools Based Mental Health Team

EMAIL:

Jane.Macgregor@cdhb.health.nz

SPECIFIC / ALL AGES
For: Parents with kids in care

ParentWorks

If you have a child or children in care, this two-stage course is a chance to learn helpful new skills and techniques. It involves a mixture of group and home-based sessions, and is free of charge if you have a referral.
PROVIDER:

Methodist Mission

PHONE:

03 375 1470

EMAIL:

intake@mmsi.org.nz

WEBSITE:
ParentWorks
SPECIFIC / ALL AGES
For: Separating/separated parents

Parenting Through Separation

This free 4-hour course will help you understand the needs of your child during and after a separation. In Canterbury these courses are provided in small groups, over 1 or 2 days, with helpful material to take home.
PROVIDER:

Barnardos and Family Works

PHONE:

Barnardos: 03 365 3923 or 0800 188 038

Family Works: 03 366 5472

Family Works North Canterbury: 03 313 85 88 (Michelle ext 23)

SPECIFIC / KIDS
For: Quake & disaster worried kids

Journey of Hope

Run in conjunction with your child's school, this course focuses on dealing with disasters and traumatic events. These courses are run as needed.
PROVIDER:

Family Works

PHONE:

03 366 54 72

SPECIFIC / KIDS
For: Parents with kids who worry

Facing Your Fears

This dynamic six week course is designed for children aged 8-10, and a course for parents is run alongside it. Together these courses help families learn easy strategies for managing worries and enjoying life.
PROVIDER:

Catholic Social Services

PHONE:

03 379 0012

SPECIFIC / TEENS
For: Parents of teens

Tough Love

This national organisation provides parenting help for families who are struggling with their pre-teens & teen’s behaviour. Local services include weekly parent support groups, community seminars and 6 week parenting courses.
PROVIDER:

Toughlove

PHONE:

03 337 94 52

EMAIL:

toughloveusi@xtra.co.nz

WEBSITE:
Tough Love
SPECIFIC / KIDS
For: Kids aged 8-12 who bed-wet

Enuresis Bedwetting Group

Provided twice yearly, in May and August, this course offers support and treatment plans for bedwetting 8-12 year olds. The programme has been found to work in 8 out of 10 children, and generally lasts around 4-8 weeks. The Pukemanu Centre typically runs one course in each half of the year.
PROVIDER:

Pukemanu Centre

PHONE:

03 369 0130

EMAIL:

hscclinic@canterbury.ac.nz

SPECIFIC / ALL AGES
For: Single parents

Birthright Parent Groups

Designed for single parents and caregivers, these sessions are practical and relaxed - a chance to have a cup of tea and meet people facing similar challenges. These groups are offered in both the 1st and 4th terms.
PROVIDER:

Birthright

PHONE:

Free phone: 0800 457 146

EMAIL:

manager@birthrightchch.org.nz

WEBSITE:
Birthright in Christchurch
GENERAL / ALL AGES
For: Parents living in Selwyn

Selwyn Parenting Network

SPN have become the one-stop-parenting support for the Selwyn region. They will run events, arrange programmes. If you have a parenting question or are looking for a local parenting group - they'll know about it!
PROVIDER:

Selwyn Parenting Network

PHONE:

027 229 2001

EMAIL:

enquiries@spn.org.nz

WEBSITE:
Selwyn Parenting Network
SPECIFIC / ALL AGES
For: Parents and Carers of tamariki with ADHD - no diagnosis is needed

Christchurch ADHD Parent Support Group

This group has been developed by parents who's children have ADHD or may have ADHD. Parents connect and share experiences and special guests regularly attend and present. Parents of any age child are welcome. The group is informal (no sign up or need to attend every month) and is supported by the staff at Whakatata House. The group meets on the last Wednesday of every month at alternative venues - either Whakatata House or McDonalds on Moorhouse Avenue. The group is free of charge.
PROVIDER:

Schools Based Mental Health Team

EMAIL:

Jane.Macgregor@cdhb.health.nz

SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: For pregnant parents and their supports

Whāngai Ū – preparation for breastfeeding classes

Casual and engaging session held monthly to help prepare families for breastfeeding. Held at Burwood Hospital and the Aranui/Wainoni Community Centre.
PROVIDER:

Te Puawaitanga ki Ōtautahi Trust

PHONE:

(03) 344 5062 or 0800 669957

EMAIL:

Kelly.Dorgan@omwwl.maori.nz


SPECIFIC / KIDS
For: Nutrition & lifestyle support

Active Families

Designed to improve the long term health of families, these 10 x 1-hour sessions include education, and practical help with nutrition and physical activity. They can be held in your home, or community, and are open to the whole family.
PROVIDER:

Pegasus Health

PHONE:

 Please speak to your family doctor or contact Puāwai Family Programmes and Support on 0800 333 405

EMAIL:

healthylifestyles@pegasus.org.nz

SPECIFIC / BUBS & KIDS
For: Parents up to the age 25

Mellow Parenting

This 14-week parenting group is for parents aged 25 and under. Each group includes an activity and lunch with your child, and Dads are welcome. It's a great chance to meet other parents and the focus is on the relationship between you and your child.
PROVIDER:

St John of God Waipuna

PHONE:

03 386 2159

EMAIL:

enquiries.waipuna@sjog.org.nz

WEBSITE:
Mellow Parenting
SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: Expecting parents

Pregnancy and Parenting Education (Antenatal)

Antenatal classes for parents-to-be and their support people. Information and options for: pregnancy, labour, birth and postnatal period.
PROVIDER:

Plunket

PHONE:

0800 291 658

EMAIL:

ppe@plunket.org.nz

WEBSITE:
Enrol online
SPECIFIC / TEENS
For: Parent with anxious kids

Brave

This online course is designed to help children aged 7-18 years who are experiencing anxiety. It includes ten 30-minute sessions for children, and six for parents. (NB: If you're unable to gain a referral, others courses to consider include Facing Your Fears and Incredible Years.)
PROVIDER:

Children must be referred to the BRAVE programme via your GP, Public Health Nurses or Social Worker attached to your school.

SPECIFIC / ALL AGES
For: Parents with disabled children

Parent 2 Parent Support

Raising a child with a disability can be a challenging journey. Parent 2 Parent can inform, educate, inspire and support you as you navigate your way through your family’s experience. Services are free and confidential, and there are a range of courses available.
PROVIDER:

Parent to Parent

PHONE:

0508 236 236

EMAIL:

gtrcanterbury@parent2parent.org.nz

WEBSITE:
Parent 2 Parent
SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: New parents wanting extra support

Plunket Postnatal Adjustment Programme

If you are experiencing anxiety, distress or depression during your pregnancy or following your baby's birth, the Plunket Postnatal Adjustment Programme may be able to help. This programme provides in-home assessment and support and offers group programmes such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, partner’s evenings and general support.
PROVIDER:

Plunket 

PHONE:

03 365 1646

EMAIL:

PPNAP.Canterbury@plunket.org.nz

WEBSITE:
Post-Natal Adjustment Programme
SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: Parents under 25 with babies

Infant Massage

Learn how to massage your 0-6 month old baby, helping them to sleep better, cry less often and have better overall health. This is a great way to connect with other parents and the group is run by a certified infant massage instructor. Morning tea is provided.
PROVIDER:

St John of God Waipuna

PHONE:

03 386 21 59

EMAIL:

enquiries.waipuna@sjog.org.nz

SPECIFIC / ALL AGES
For: Parents with children needing help

Home and Family Parenting Programme

The focus of this residential 24/7 in-home programme is to help keep families together by fostering safe, effective and nurturing parenting. The team often work with families where out of home placements are being considered, or children are returning to their parents' care. Counselling services are also available.
PROVIDER:

Home and Family

PHONE:

 03 332 0335

EMAIL:

sandra@homeandfamily.net.nz

WEBSITE:
homeandfamily.net.nz/parenting
SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: New mums

Canterbury Breastfeeding Advocacy Service

An information hub about all aspects of infant and young child feeding. Please make contact if you are looking for any support with breastfeeding.
PROVIDER:

Te Puawaitanga ki Otautahi Trust

PHONE:

Phone: 03 344 5062 or 

Freephone: 0800 669 957

EMAIL:

Kelly.Dorgan@omwwl.maori.nz or Cara.Meredith@omwwl.maori.nz

WEBSITE:
Breastfeeding Advocacy Service
SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: Young parents in North Canterbury

Rachel's House Trust

We offer support for young parents in the North Canterbury region. Support can come in the form of a community support worker, counselling, advocacy, baby and toddler clothes and items, mentoring, a fortnightly playgroup, connect group and regular workshops complete with childcare to make it easier.
PROVIDER:

Rachel's House Trust

PHONE:

0220 433 298

EMAIL:

admin@rachelstrust.org.nz

WEBSITE:
Rachel's House Trust
SPECIFIC / ALL AGES
For: Those affected by sexual violence

START Parent Groups

START Parent Groups are focussed on parenting kids who have experienced sexual violence. These groups are free, confidential and demand-driven. START also provide phone and in-person support to parents affected by sexual violence (of either themselves or their children).
PROVIDER:

START

PHONE:

03 355 4414

EMAIL:

admin@starthealing.org

WEBSITE:
START Parenting Groups
SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: Expecting parents 23-years and under

Young Parenting Pregnancy & Parenting Education

Pregnancy and parenting (antenatal) programme for young parents-to-be who are under 24 years. 6 evening sessions run by Plunket at Waipuna. Covers topics from: pregnancy health, labour & child-birth, breastfeeding, and coping with a new baby. Opportunity to connect with other young parents. Partners/support people welcome. Transport available and supper provided.
PROVIDER:

St John of God Hauora Trust and Plunket

PHONE:

Phone Waipuna on  (03) 386 2159  or text 021607536.

EMAIL:

enquiries.waipuna@sjog.org.nz

WEBSITE:
Register through the Plunket Website
GENERAL / ALL AGES
For: Any parents in New Brighton

New Brighton Parent Support

Providing a huge variety of programmes and supports for parents (not just youthful parents or parents of youth)! These include playgroups, courses, seminars, toolbox parent groups, breastfeeding support and babysitting training for teenagers.
PROVIDER:

Youth Alive Trust

PHONE:

03 388 1001

EMAIL:

parenting@yat.org.nz

WEBSITE:
Youth Alive Trust
SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: Breastfeeding Mums

Māma2Māma Breastfeeding Peer Counselling Programme

Free breastfeeding peer counselling courses for women. Learn more about breastfeeding and how to support other mums with breastfeeding.
PROVIDER:

Te Puawaitanga

PHONE:

Phone Kelly -  (03) 3445062 or Freephone 0800669957

EMAIL:

Kelly.Dorgan@omwwl.maori.nz

WEBSITE:
Mama2Mama Breastfeeding Support Facebook Page
GENERAL / KIDS
For: Parents of children aged from 2 - 12

Triple P Discussion Groups

These discussion groups are another type of Triple P held over five sessions - 2 hours each. The format includes interactive video clips and group discussion of strategies to deal with commonly encountered problems such as disobedience, fighting and aggression, and managing situations such as shopping with children and bedtime.
PROVIDER:

The Salvation Army (Christchurch City Corps)

PHONE:

03 366 8128

EMAIL:

christchurchcity.corps@salvationarmy.org.nz

SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: Breastfeeding Mums

Mother4Mother Breastfeeding Support

A breastfeeding support group where Mums who are trained, support other Mums to breastfeed. Breastfeeding peer support groups are offered all over the Greater Christchurch, and in Rangiora, Rolleston and Ashburton area. Check out the Facebook page for locations and contacts - https://www.facebook.com/mother4motherRCPHO/ There is also training available to become a peer counsellor and support other Mums.
PROVIDER:

Waitaha Primary Health

PHONE:

Janine: 0800 800 743 or 027 588 1007


EMAIL:

janine.pinkham@waitaha.health.nz

WEBSITE:
Mother4Mother Peer Support
SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: Families coping with Gastric Reflux or EoE/EGID or Laryngomalacia (or other associated conditions)

Gastric Reflux Support

Providing support and information to families caring for infants and children with gastric reflux and associated conditions (EoE/EGID or Laryngomalacia in particular). Services include: - Local Support Network groups which are private to ensure privacy and confidentiality, - A Facebook page (accessible from the website), Information - and Fact Sheets which can be viewed and printed from the website too.
PROVIDER:

Gastric Reflux Support Network NZ for Parents of Infants and Children Charitable Trust (GRSNNZ)

PHONE:
Phone or Text 022 5855 935

Phone 0800 380 517

WEBSITE:
Crying over spilt milk
GENERAL / ALL AGES
For: Dads

Positive Lifestyle Men's Group

This consists of 7 weekly sessions, on a Tuesday morning. Topics covered include Stress management, Grief and loss, problem solving & conflict resolution, assertiveness, self esteem and goal setting. This this course is offered twice a year, and alternates with the Men On a Mission course, a which we run in conjunction with the Methodist Mission, and aims to get men connecting with each other and with various community activities.
PROVIDER:

The Salvation Army (Christchurch City Corps)

PHONE:

03 366 8128

EMAIL:

christchurchcity_corps@nzf.salvationarmy.org

SPECIFIC / ALL AGES
For: Mums

Life Skills for Women

This course runs weekly for 8 sessions, This course has a strong emphasis on self-awareness ,and self care; and covers basic physical and emotional health knowledge, relationship skills, communication and assertiveness, budgeting and goal setting. This course is offered four times a year, timed to fit in with primary school terms.
PROVIDER:

The Salvation Army (Christchurch City Corps)

PHONE:

03 3668128

EMAIL:

christchurchcity_corps@nzf.salvationarmy.org

SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: For: Parents of 9 mths- 2 year olds looking for kai tips

Munching Stage 2 - Toddler Nutrition

An evening session with information and ideas on catering for 9 month olds - 2 year olds: * snacks and balanced meal ideas * positive mealtimes * variety and portions * nutrient requirements * picky eaters and more!"
PROVIDER:

Parents Centre

PHONE:

021 0872 6943

EMAIL:

chch.parentscentre@xtra.co.nz

WEBSITE:
Parents Centre
SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: Parents affected by PND and anxiety

Canterbury PND Drop-in Group

An informal facilitated drop in support group for parents needing extra support, wanting to connect with others in the same situation or who are unable to attend our daytime groups. Open to anyone with current or past perinatal depression, anxiety or other related illnesses. You do not need to have used our service before. Facilitated by a Mum who has experienced postnatal depression. A safe space with no judgement. No formal registration needed, attend one session or every fortnight, whatever you need. Please note there will be no childcare available but you are welcome to bring your babies along. When: Alternate Wednesdays (Check here for dates) Time: 7:00pm – 9:00pm Where: The Village Community Centre, 460 Papanui Road, Papanui (opposite KFC) Cost: Gold coin donation
PROVIDER:

PND Canterbury

EMAIL:

admin@pndcanterbury.co.nz

WEBSITE:
PND Canterbury
GENERAL / ALL AGES
For: Absolutely anyone raising kids

Real Parents!

Real Parents is made up of real and upbeat professionals who love helping parents find their confidence and enjoy their relationships with their kids. We offer the Incredible Years Parenting and Tuning into Kids parent programmes, regular seminars, workshops and in-home coaching. Whatever the age, stage and challenge you're facing, come talk.
PROVIDER:

Real Parents

PHONE:

Anna: 021 712 173

EMAIL:

anna@realparents.org

WEBSITE:
Real Parents
SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: Dads affected by postnatal and perinatal depression and anxiety

PND Canterbury - Dads Support Group

An informal group for Dads who are needing some extra support with their own postnatal depression and anxiety, or would like to know more about what their partners are going through. Facilitated by a Dad who has had experience of both this is a safe place to chat, listen and connect with others without the fear of being judged. Total confidentiality. No formal registration needed, attend one session or every fortnight, whatever you need. Gold coin donation to help cover costs of snacks and drink. When: Alternate Wednesdays (Check here for dates) Time: 7:00pm – 9:00pm Where: The Village Community Centre, 460 Papanui Road, Papanui (opposite KFC) Cost: Gold coin donation
PROVIDER:

PND Canterbury

EMAIL:

admin@pndcanterbury.co.nz

WEBSITE:
PND Canterbury
SPECIFIC / BUBS
For: Mums affected by postnatal and perinatal depression and anxiety

PND Canterbury - Mums Support Group

The PND support group is a safe space for mums with perinatal depression and anxiety to connect and acknowledge their struggles. Facilitated by a mum who has experienced PND they learn a variety of self help techniques that enable them to take back control of their lives. You will need complete a referral form (but can do this yourself!) - head to the website to do this. This is a Thursday, day-time group, but if this doesn't suit you check out the Canterbury PND drop-in group. All details are on their website (below).
PROVIDER:

PND Canterbury

EMAIL:

admin@pndcanterbury.co.nz

WEBSITE:
PND Canterbury
SPECIFIC / ALL AGES
For: Anyone raising kids

After something else?

That's cool! All families are different, Right Service Right Time are in the know about what's available to support Canterbury parents. Give them a call or email them.
PROVIDER:

Right Service Right Time

PHONE:

(03) 378 2782

EMAIL:

info@rightservice.org.nz

WEBSITE:
Right Service Right Time

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A wee shout out!

Our Parenting Courses page was developed by All Right and the Methodist Mission thanks to funding from the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal Trust.