Ace Music Therapy have announced the next 2 blocks of free Wiggles and Jiggles groups for babies and their mums in Chelmsford this autumn.
This fun and friendly group combines music, movement, and baby massage to support babies’ early development while giving parents a chance to connect, chat, and enjoy time with their little ones.
Designed and delivered by a qualified Music Therapist and Paediatric Physiotherapist, the sessions combine live music, baby massage & movement to support childhood development, enhance parent-child bonds, and improve maternal mental health.
This evidence-based program uses music as a clinical tool to promote communication, emotional regulation, creativity, and self-confidence. These benefits are especially impactful for mothers experiencing postnatal depression (PND) or isolation, as research demonstrates that structured baby classes improve maternal mood, enhance early interactions, and foster secure attachments. Babies gain from the developmental benefits of live music and tactile activities.
The sessions will be led by Amelia – our CEO & HCPC Registered Music Therapist and Natalie – Paediatric Physiotherapist from Happy Little Feet. The sessions are gentle, engaging, and accessible for babies of all abilities, including those with special needs, from 12 weeks to pre-crawling.
The group will run for 6 weeks, with resources given to parents for practising some of the skills learnt in the group at home. The group can accommodate up to 8 babies and their mums (one parent should attend the entire block where possible.)
Please note – our aim with this group is to reach the people who need it most – Please do not share the group details on social media at this time, we are trying to reach social prescribers, family support teams and those who work with vulnerable parents, who can signpost the mothers they support to our group.
September – October Group (For Babies that will be between 12 weeks + pre-crawling between these dates)
The Essex Alliance is sharing this information on behalf of Parents 1st.
Pregnancy in Mind (PiM) is a free mental health support group for parents-to-be to find space for whatever they’re feeling. It is designed for parents experiencing or at risk of mild anxiety or depression, who are between 12 and 26 weeks pregnant.
Our PiM online groups are safe spaces where we support you with whatever emotions you’re feeling during pregnancy. PiM typically meets once a week for eight weeks. Sessions are for either parent. You can come on your own or bring a support person.
We’ll explore:
– Coping strategies
– How to understand your mental health
– Mindfulness and ways to boost your mood
– Relaxation
– Connecting with your baby
DATES
Tuesdays 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th June & 7th, 14th, 21st July (you will need to be able to attend all the sessions) TIME
6:30-8:00pm LOCATION
Online via Zoom COST
FREE
For more information and to register your interest in joining a group, please visit the Parents 1st website: Pregnancy in Mind – Parents 1st
Through the generosity of The Prudence Trust and The Stone Family Foundation, Renew is now offering freeParent Support Sessions.
These groups are for parents, carers and professionals supporting young people with issues around negative body image, disordered eating or low self-esteem. We aim to help build confidence and equip them to support their child through these challenges.
Our sessions will provide a safe space to share experiences, ask questions and gain support and practical strategies from trained professionals.
You can attend these on an adhoc basis or more regularly to suit your needs. You do not need to have an existing relationship with Renew to access these sessions.
When?Every Wednesday
Where?Either in person at Chelmsford Counselling Centre or online
What time?In person at 10:00am until 11:30am, or Online at 6:00pm – 7:00pm
