Embarking on the journey of parenthood can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, especially for new parents in the Delaware Beaches area. This guide is designed to help you navigate through the myriad of resources available locally, from lactation consulting to parenting classes, ensuring a smoother transition into this new and exciting phase of life.
Lactation Consulting
Breastfeeding can be challenging, and lactation consultants are invaluable in providing support. In the Delaware Beaches area, local hospitals like Beebe Healthcare offer lactation consulting services. The La Leche League of Delaware provides support and meetings for breastfeeding mothers.
Consider the premiere option; Maternally Yours, now merged with Atracare >
You can benefit from a lactation consultation if:
- You are pregnant.
- Breastfeeding is painful, your baby is not latching, or is not gaining weight well.
- You need help with pumping.
- Your milk supply is either too low or too high.
- Your baby is ill or premature.
- You have multiples.
- You are looking to wean or dry up your supply.
- You just are looking to find out if you are doing things right.
Parenting Classes
Local hospitals and community centers often offer parenting classes. Beebe Healthcare, for instance, provides classes covering a range of topics, including baby care basics and infant CPR. These classes are also a fantastic opportunity to connect with other new parents in your community.
Links:
Postpartum, & Pediatric Weight Loss
Nutrihealth has multiple convenient locations across northern and southern Delaware. They accept almost all insurance options, and Medicare and Medicaid.
More about Nutrihealth: Our Weight Loss & Health Management Philosophy Adults and adolescents who need and want to lose weight benefit from the scientific-based approach provided by NutriHealth. The program focuses on four disciplines: Nutrition planning, Fitness, Behavioral Therapy, and Pharmacotherapy. Play Video Patients receive guidance on ways to revise their nutrition and fitness to maximize weight loss. The medical weight-loss specialists evaluate your sleep and provide behavioral health support to help you change your habits to promote long-term body composition changes. Some patients benefit from specific medications to support appetite and fat loss. The team at NutriHealth Weight Loss offers comprehensive weight-loss plans that are covered by most insurance plans. Members benefit from monthly complimentary gym memberships at Planet Fitness, PureFitness and Flex World Gyms. Patients ready to get started losing weight and feeling better should call NutriHealth Weight Loss today or use the online booking option to schedule a consultation.
Find a Weight Loss Clinic Near You >
Pediatric Healthcare
Choosing the right pediatrician is crucial. Delaware Beaches has a range of pediatric practices like Atracare, Dr. Maria Childers, Beacon Pediatrics in Rehoboth Beach or the Pediatric & Adolescent Center in Lewes. Visit a few to find one whose philosophy aligns with your parenting style.
Our list of Pediatricians and resource to finding a pediatrician at the delaware beaches >
Support Groups
Connecting with other parents who are experiencing similar challenges and milestones can be incredibly reassuring. Look for local parenting groups on social media platforms or community centers like the Sussex Family YMCA, which often hosts parent meet-ups.
Facebook Groups:
Gynecology, & Obstetrics
Womens Wellness of Southern Delaware >
Child Care Resources
For those returning to work, finding reliable child care is essential. Resources like Delaware’s Office of Child Care Licensing provide information on licensed child care centers and family child care homes. Always remember to verify their credentials and references.
Childcare Centers in Sussex County, Delaware
Top Childcare Centers
- Giggle Bugs Early Learning Center, LLC – Millsboro, DE 19966. Phone: (302) 934-5437. Delaware’s Office of Child Care Licensing
- Boys & Girls of Oak Orchard – The Growing Tree – Millsboro, DE 19966. Phone: (302) 231-8595.
- Bright Beginnings Child Care Center, LLC – Millsboro, DE 19966. Phone: (302) 934-1249.
- Epworth Preschool – Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. Phone: (302) 227-7120.
- Little Einstein’s Preschool – Millsboro – Millsboro, DE 19966. Phone: (302) 933-0600.
- The Breakfast Club – Milford, DE 19963. Phone: (302) 424-2117.
- Avenue Preschool – Milford, DE 19963. Phone: (302) 422-8775.
- Beach Babies Child Care – Lewes, DE 19958. Phone: (302) 644-1585; Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. Phone: (302) 645-5010.
- Boys & Girls Club – Multiple locations in Dagsboro, Georgetown, Milford, Oak Orchard, Rehoboth Beach, and Seaford.
Additional Resources
- Delaware Health and Social Services Child Care Services – Support for families with children for various needs.
- My Child DE – Comprehensive consumer education website for childcare in Delaware.
- Delaware Stars for Early Success – Quality Rating and Improvement System for early care and education programs.
For a comprehensive list of childcare centers in Sussex County, visit ChildcareCenter.us.
Mental Health Support
Postpartum depression and anxiety are significant concerns for new parents. Local healthcare providers can offer referrals to specialists. Organizations like Mental Health Association in Delaware offer resources and support for mental wellness.
Additional Resources:
Nutritional Guidance
Proper nutrition is key for both mother and baby. Hospitals like Beebe Healthcare often have registered dietitians who specialize in postnatal nutrition. They can provide personalized guidance, especially for breastfeeding mothers.
WIC:
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infant and Children, popularly known as WIC, is a federal nutrition program that helps pregnant women, new mothers, and young children eat well, learn about nutrition and stay healthy!
What is WIC?
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infant and Children, popularly known as WIC, is a federal nutrition program that helps pregnant women, new mothers, and young children eat well, learn about nutrition (WIC Smart), and stay healthy. Learn more.
WIC Provides:
- Nutritious foods to supplement diets.
- Information on healthy eating.
- Breastfeeding support.
- Referrals to other healthcare, welfare, and social services.
- Nutrition Education.
- Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program.
Food Bank of Delaware:
https://www.facebook.com/FoodBankofDE/
Contact Delaware WIC:
- New Castle County
Hudson: (302) 605-4066
West End: (302) 605-6653
Northeast/Claymont: (302) 605-4099
Email: nccwic@delaware.gov - Kent County
(302) 605-1833
(302) 605-4077 (Spanish)
Email: kentwic@delaware.gov - Sussex County
(302) 605-4055
(302) 605-4077 (Spanish) - Email: sussexwic@delaware.gov
Online Resources and Apps
There are numerous apps and online resources providing parenting tips and information. Delaware libraries and community centers often provide access to digital resources and workshops on navigating parenting in the digital age.
Conclusion
For new parents in the Delaware Beaches area, a wealth of resources is available to help navigate the early stages of parenthood. From lactation consulting to parenting classes and mental health support, don’t hesitate to reach out and make the most of these local supports. Remember, every parenting journey is unique, and finding the right support can make a significant difference.
