Towards Parenthood
Preparing for the changes and challenges of a new baby
Towards Parenthood Workbook & eBook
Towards Parenthood is available as a printed workbook or an online interactive program. PIRI also offers a value bundle that includes both options.
You can purchase the workbook, eBook, or bundle via the link below.
Overview
Towards Parenthood is a self-help program designed to support expectant parents through the emotional, social, and psychological changes that come with becoming a parent.
Using clear language, gentle humour, and practical exercises, the program helps parents prepare for the transition to parenthood. Each chapter includes illustrations and reflective activities that support coping, communication, and relationship strength during this major life change.
What does it cover?
Towards Parenthood explores common expectations and challenges of parenthood and offers practical tools to build coping and problem-solving skills. It focuses on:
- Adjusting to life changes after having a baby
- Supporting the couple relationship and improving communication
- Reducing conflict and managing stress
- Building self-esteem and assertive communication skills
- Understanding your newborn’s needs and behavioural cues to support bonding
Who is this program for?
This Australian publication is suitable for:
- Expectant parents
- Friends and relatives looking for a thoughtful baby gift
- Health professionals supporting expectant and new parents
- Workplaces supporting staff preparing for parental leave
How is this program different?
Towards Parenthood was written by a team of experienced psychologists who specialise in working with families during the transition to parenthood. The content is practical, evidence-based, and grounded in real-life experiences.
Rather than focusing on the physical aspects of pregnancy or birth, the program supports parents to manage the emotional and relationship challenges of early parenthood by building helpful coping and parenting skills.
Towards Parenthood has been evaluated as an intervention to support couples during the transition to parenthood. In a randomised controlled trial, women who completed Towards Parenthood antenatally, together with phone coaching, reported:
- lower anxiety
- lower stress
- fewer depressive symptoms
- less parenting stress during the transition to parenthood
Program chapters
- Chapter 1: Toward Motherhood
- Chapter 2: Toward Fatherhood
- Chapter 3: We’re Expecting! Preparing for Parenthood
- Chapter 4: Caring for Yourself Is Caring for Your Baby
- Chapter 5: From Lovers to Parents – Managing Relationship Changes
- Chapter 6: Keeping Balance in Your Life
- Chapter 7: Healthy Thinking, Healthy Self
- Chapter 8: Caring for Your Newborn Baby
- Chapter 9: Welcome to “The Club”
The workbook is published by ACER and was launched in June 2009. It is currently in reprint and continues to be used in Australia and internationally.
The program has been translated into Italian and adapted for use in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. More information is available at towardsparenthood.org.au.
To download the inaugural media release for the Towards Parenthood Workbook, click here.
Authors
- Professor Jeannette Milgrom
- Ms Jennie Ericksen
- Dr Bronwyn Leigh
- Ms Yolanda Romeo
- Ms Elizabeth Loughlin
- Ms Bella Saunders
- Ms Rachael McCarthy (1969–2005)
- Ms Bev Aisbett
