As the owner of Cradle Care, I’m on a mission to change the postnatal support system in Australia. Becoming a new parent is one of life’s most amazing experiences, but it’s also one of the most challenging—especially in a system where, up to now, postnatal care simply doesn’t exist. Too many parents are leaving the hospital without adequate support. At Cradle Care, we aim to bridge this gap, providing compassionate, in-home support to new parents so they can grow confidence in their new role as parents.
The missing link in Postnatal Care
In many parts of the world, like the Netherlands, postnatal support is built into the healthcare system. Trained professionals visit new parents daily, offering guidance on feeding, sleep, and newborn care. This model not only benefits the parents but also supports the baby’s development and creates a more confident start into parenthood. Unfortunately, Australia has yet to adopt a similar approach, leaving new parents to navigate newborn care alone once they’re discharged.
Without guidance, parents are often overwhelmed by conflicting advice and unexpected challenges like sleep deprivation. The first weeks with a newborn are intense, and it’s common for parents to feel exhausted and anxious without a trusted, knowledgeable person to turn to. This is where Cradle Care steps in.
Cradle Care’s vision: bringing in-home support to parents
Cradle Care was born from my personal journey. As I experienced firsthand the difference a postnatal support person made after the birth of my children. When I gave birth in the Netherlands, a maternity nurse came to our home every day, offering not only practical help but also emotional support during those intense first days. The care I received allowed me to focus on recovery, bond with our baby, and grow our confidence as new parents.
When I gave birth in Australia, I felt unsupported and isolated, struggling without the resources I needed. I quickly realised the immense gap in Australia’s healthcare system for new parents. My experience inspired me to create Cradle Care, a service dedicated to supporting (new) parents and making sure that no one feels alone as they embark on this journey.
What Cradle Care provides
At Cradle Care, we’re more than just carers; we’re compassionate companions, guides, and supporters for new parents. We are the gap that needs to be filled between clinical advice and practical, hands-on support—without crossing into the medical sphere. Here’s what makes our approach unique:
Empowering parents with knowledge and confidence
We believe in supporting parents without taking over. Our carers teach parents the skills they need to care for their newborn, helping them gain confidence in feeding, safe sleeping practices, and baby care essentials. Our approach is about empowerment rather than instruction; we’re there to encourage parents to listen to their own instincts, we are not there to tell them what to do.
Respecting family’s unique dynamic
Every family has its own rhythm, traditions, and preferences. Cradle Care works within those values, respecting the family’s way of doing things rather than imposing a “one-size-fits-all” approach. We understand that our role is to blend into the family’s life, offering support without disrupting their household or routines.
Prioritising the parents well-being
At Cradle Care, we put the parents at the heart of our support. We know that when the parents feel cared for and secure, they are better equipped to care for their newborn. Our carers are there to listen, to support the parents emotional needs, and to ensure the parents feel respected and valued in their own home. From providing nutritious snacks and keeping them hydrated to offering a quiet, empathetic ear, we create a nurturing environment for the mother’s recovery after giving birth.
The power of oxytocin
New parenthood is a delicate balance, and our carers are trained to create calm and bonding moments for the family. We know that quality time together releases oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” which is beneficial for both mother and baby. By stepping aside and respecting intimate family moments, we allow parents to build these irreplaceable connections without interruption.
Why self-care is essential for new parents
To the professional expecting or new parent who is reading this: you may prioritise self-care in your daily life, but after the birth of a child, self-care takes on new meaning. It’s no longer about spa days or meditation retreats (though we support those too!); rather, it’s about allowing yourself to accept help and recognising that you don’t have to do everything alone.
Cradle Care is designed for parents like you, who understand the importance of taking care of themselves so they can be fully present for their newborn. With our support, you don’t have to choose between looking after your child and looking after yourself. We’re here to ensure you get time to rest, recover, and regain your strength in a way that sets you up for a fulfilling parenting journey.
Changing the landscape of postnatal care in Australia
Building a postnatal care system in Australia will take time, but we’re committed to being at the forefront of this change. Already, we’ve seen the positive impact our services have had on families from all walks of life, and we’re continually refining our approach based on their feedback. Our vision goes beyond individual homes: we want to see postnatal care recognised as a critical part of healthcare in Australia. Cradle Care is pioneering a movement that we hope will eventually lead to systemic change.
Our carers are trained to provide non-judgmental, respectful support that meets each family where they are. They come prepared with knowledge and resources but without an agenda. Instead, they create a safe space where parents feel free to ask questions, make mistakes, and learn at their own pace.
Building the future of Postnatal support together
Our goal is for Cradle Care to be a voice in the community, advocating for the importance of early postnatal support. We’re already collaborating with healthcare professionals, policymakers, and other community leaders to explore ways we can integrate postnatal support into the broader healthcare landscape. If you’re a parent, a healthcare professional, or a supporter of this cause, we invite you to join us on this journey.
How you can get involved
If you’re a new or expecting parent, consider how postnatal support might make a difference in your own life. Reach out to us at Cradle Care, and let us show you what a difference the right care can make. By choosing Cradle Care, you’re not only taking an active step toward your own well-being; you’re also helping to build a case for wider postnatal support in Australia. Every family we support brings us closer to a system where all parents have access to the help they need.
And for those of you who believe in the value of our work, please spread the word. Share this article, talk to your healthcare provider about postnatal care, and advocate for more resources and support for new parents. Together, we can create a better future where every parent and newborn in Australia receives the care and support they deserve.
Cradle Care is here to help you navigate the often overwhelming experience of bringing a newborn home. By filling in the gaps in Australia’s healthcare system, we’re not just helping individual families; we’re laying the groundwork for a movement. A movement that values postnatal support as an essential part of the parenting journey. Our work is just beginning, but with the help of families and supporters like you, we’re optimistic about a future where every new parent has the resources they need to thrive.
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