Parkes – Peak Hill. With the generous support of the Northparkes Mines, the Strong Young Mums program is delivered in Parkes and Peak Hill. The program targets mothers under the age of 25 years and their children. The Strong Young Mums program provides:  Parent education  Supported playgroups Individual support, training and education for mothers preparing to return to or enter the workforce History – CatholicCare originally established the Strong Young Mums program in Bourke in September 2005 with funding from the Australian Government through the Stronger Families and Community Strategy. Strong Young Mums was established in response to the high occurrence of teenage pregnancies in Bourke. Strong Young Mums connects women with the education system and early intervention programs and conducts regular activities to engage mothers with other services and support networks. The young women also participate in weekly play groups and social gatherings which are attended by health and early childhood professionals as well as older women who act as mentors for the young mums. During these group sessions women learn about health, nutrition, bonding, play, parent-child interaction and parenting. The women and their children participate in play and early literacy activities which they are encouraged to take back […]