What happens in childhood has lifelong effects on our health and wellbeing.
Our HENRY programme and workshops supports families to provide the best possible start in life for babies and children.
Aimed at families with children aged 0-5 years, Healthy Families Right from the Start is an eight-week programme which helps families to adopt a healthier lifestyle, creating more opportunities to play with your children.
HENRY workshops include Understanding Behaviour, Looking After Ourselves, Healthy Teeth, Eating Well for Less and more.
One parent, Dan, signed up to HENRY, determined to become a better parent and create a better future for his child. We caught up with Dan, who admits the programme has made a huge impact on his life.
“I feel like since coming here, it’s really helped me understand the ways to become a better parent and how to co-parent a lot more effectively. I look at things from both points of view now.
“It has also made me a better dad. I learned that when my son would be acting up, it’s actually not a behaviour problem, it’ll be connected to one of his feelings and them feelings need to be addressed. So, it’s given me a better understanding of what he needs and how I can be a better dad.”
Dan is now encouraging other parents to give HENRY a try. “What have you got to lose? If I could go back, I would do it from day one. I believe all parents should give it a go and try and see things from the other parents’ perspective. I’ve learned so much and I’m sure there’s loads of people that will too.
“I enjoyed meeting everyone. Natalie and Hayleigh have been lovely. It’s a nice experience to come and meet new people and to talk, and get things off your chest what you can’t really talk to other people about. It’s a safe space and eye opening.”
After completing HENRY and reflecting on what he would do differently as a parent, Dan said: I would do a lot differently. I would look after myself more. I would definitely understand my child’s needs more. But you live and learn and I’m so glad I came.”
Staff instantly recognised Dan’s commitment and dedication to becoming a better parent. Natalie Padget, Early Years Practitioner who supports parents within Bede, Boldon, and Biddick and Whiteleas Family Hub added: “We are so proud of Dan. He hasn’t looked back since joining the HENRY programme. His attitude and willingness to learn and grow is testament to the person he is.”
Please contact your local Family Hub for more information on HENRY.
