
General Parenting Resources
Parenting can be both rewarding and challenging, especially in those early years. This page offers a variety of supportive resources designed to help you navigate your journey with confidence. Whether you’re looking for expert guidance, community connections, or practical tips, you’ll find helpful tools and programs that make parenting a little easier—and a lot more joyful.
Pregnancy & Early Parenting Support
Birth and Parent Companion Program
Offered by Mothercraft Ottawa, this free volunteer-based program provides one-on-one prenatal, labour, postpartum, and parenting support to families who may be experiencing isolation or other challenges. Trained companions offer emotional support, practical guidance, advocacy, and connections to community resources, helping parents build confidence and feel supported throughout pregnancy and early parenthood. Visit mothercraft.com for more information.
Healthy Babies Healthy Children
Healthy Babies Healthy Children is a free, voluntary Ontario program that supports families during pregnancy and throughout early childhood. Public health nurses and family home visitors can provide guidance on child development, parenting, feeding, safety, and connecting with community resources to help children get the best possible start in life. Visit ottawapublichealth.ca for more information.
Healthy Start at PHQC
Healthy Start is a free, family-centred program that supports pregnant individuals and families with young children in Ottawa. The program provides health education, parenting support, nutrition information, and referrals to community resources to promote the health and well-being of both parents and children during pregnancy and early childhood. Visit pqchc.com for more information.
Parenting in Ottawa Prenatal Classes
Preparing for a new baby can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone. Parenting in Ottawa offers free prenatal classes that provide evidence-based information on pregnancy, labour and delivery, newborn care, feeding, postpartum recovery, and the transition to parenthood. Classes are available in a variety of formats and can help expectant parents build confidence, learn what to expect, and connect with local resources and supports before their baby arrives. Visit parentinginottawa.ca for more resources.

Health Advice & Community Navigation
Health811
Connect with a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for free, secure, and confidential health advice. Services are available in English and French, with interpretation offered in many other languages. Call 8-1-1 or visit Health811.ontario.ca for support with health concerns, symptoms, and questions about your child’s health.
2-1-1 Ontario
Looking for community programs or local services? Connect with a Community Navigator through 2-1-1 Ontario for information on childcare, parenting supports, housing, food assistance, mental health services, and more. Available 24/7 in over 150 languages. Call 2-1-1 or visit 211Ontario.ca.

Parent Education & Community Resources
Parenting in Ottawa
Parenting in Ottawa provides trusted local information for families from pregnancy through childhood. Explore resources on pregnancy, parenting, child development, breastfeeding, nutrition, safety, and family services. The website also offers information about prenatal classes, parenting programs, and community supports available throughout Ottawa. Visit parentinginottawa.ca for more information.
Parenting in Ottawa Facebook Community
Connect with other local parents, stay informed about family programs and events, and access parenting tips and resources through the Parenting in Ottawa Facebook page. This online community is a great way to learn about services and supports available to families across Ottawa. Visit facebook.com/parentinginottawa for more information.

In partnership with Ottawa Public Health, these free drop-in sessions offer parents and caregivers a chance to connect with a public health nurse. No appointment needed—just come by to get support on feeding, child development, and parenting, available at various library locations across Ottawa.
Getting Help Is a Strength
Parenting can be challenging, and seeking help is a sign of strength—not weakness. There are many resources available to support you through every stage of your journey, offering guidance, practical tips, and emotional support. Whether you need answers, a listening ear, or community connection, these programs and services are here to help you feel confident, empowered, and less alone.
