Birth to Six – Parenting Young Children

It has become a widely acknowledged and indisputable fact that a child’s early years (birth to age six) is an extremely important stage of development. Research has shown the learning that takes place during the early years sets the foundation for skills and abilities that will impact learning, coping and health throughout life.

The role of a parent is critically important. Parents are the most influential force in a child’s life and are responsible for all aspects of a child’s health and wellbeing. Therefore, parents of young children require pertinent information, a range of skills, and plenty of support. Families of all types face stressors, and parents of all types need support to be effective at parenting.

In Ontario, the provincial government mandates core health programs that support early childhood development. Amongst these core services is support to parents of children from birth to age six. Parent education programs help parents to develop knowledge, skills and attitudes that are positive for children. Children benefit from parents who are more skilled, knowledgeable, confident and supported. Ottawa Public Health also supports partnerships with community agencies that are closely linked with the populations that they service.

The goal of parent education is to optimize the health and wellbeing of children in Ottawa, from birth to age six, by providing all parents the opportunity to develop their positive parenting ability.
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