Parent Sanctuary was my first outing with my tiny, 12 day old newborn after a long hospital stay, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the support I received on that day – not just with the slings but emotionally too.
My first visit was to the sling library where Rachel welcomed us with open arms, asking how my birth was, how baby was doing, and she was absolutely full of encouragement; I’ve never left anywhere feeling as empowered as I did that day. That kind of positivity and encouragement is exactly what you need in the early days of parenthood and I am so grateful to Rachel for that.
Adventure Fridays
After a few visits to the sling library I booked onto an ‘Adventure Friday’ walk; these are hosted somewhere different each week, sometimes pram friendly and sometimes slings-only for those who fancy delving a bit further into nature. I’ve been on familiar walks at Scammonden reservoir, Honley Woods, Pugneys (we even went on the little train!) and explored new places too like Cromwell Bottom, Bradley Woods and the countryside around Mirfield. Most walks will end near a cafe and we often end up going for a brunch or lunch somewhere delicious, like Arthurs in Mirfield and Villa Farm in Bradley.
Greenhead Park Family Walk (Mondays)
Parent Sanctuary also do a gentle, pram friendly stroll through Greenhead Park every Monday morning at 10am, with stops to feed the ducks along the way, followed by snacks and a cuppa in the community room or the cafe.
Finding Your Tribe
If you are like me and aren’t naturally outgoing, the idea of a group can feel a bit daunting. I often find it difficult to strike up conversations with strangers, but the walks are brilliant because the chatting happens so naturally while you move.
I’ve frequently turned up to a session without knowing anyone, and by the time we’ve made it back to the car, I’ve made new friends and had conversations that feel reassuring, validating and help you feel less alone in parenthood. There is something about being out in the fresh air that takes the pressure off and lets you really connect with people who are in the same boat.
Book a Session
If you’re thinking of coming along, I’d highly suggest booking onto all sessions in advance, including the walks and the sling library. so you’ll be the first to know if a walk has to be moved to an indoor venue or if plans change due to a sudden downpour.
You can view the sessions calendar here to book on to upcoming sessions. To find out more about the Parent Sanctuary you can also check out their website and instagram.
For more wellbeing resources, head to the Parenthudd Wellbeing Support Page or for activity ideas you can check out the Day-Out-Directory.
