Victorian families will be able to access the latest parenting tips, advice and guidance at just a touch of a screen, with the release of a new interactive smartphone app.
The Andrews Labor Government today launched the free MCH App – developed by Victoria's trusted Maternal and Child Health Services – which gives families access to comprehensive information matched to the age range of their child.
The app provides reminders about upcoming MCH appointments, seasonal warnings, a list of useful contacts and an interactive Q&A function with links to trusted information online.
Tips and useful advice are available on a range of topics, such as meals and snacks, sleeping and settling, learning and development, child behaviour, injury prevention, communication and play-based learning.
The Labor Government is investing $930,000 over four years to continue developing the app, which was designed in consultation with families and will be regularly updated with new features.
Minister for Early Childhood Education Jenny Mikakos today joined early childhood professionals at the MCH Conference to launch the app and announce other workforce initiatives for MCH nurses.
This includes working with experts from the Royal Women’s Hospital, University of Melbourne and Deakin University to design a training package for early childhood professionals to better support families affected by trauma, particularly those experiencing family violence.
Ms Mikakos also launched new clinical supervision guidelines for the Enhanced MCH program, which will build the capacity of MCH nurses in caring for families with complex needs.
The Government’s landmark $202.1 million Education State Early Childhood Reform Plan is delivering better services to parents with young children, as well as improved early intervention for kids who need extra support.
The Plan includes $81.1 million to expand the availability of supported playgroups across Victoria and boost MCH and parenting support, helping provide families with strong support in early childhood, so children are ready for kinder, ready for school and ready for life.
The app can be downloaded from the Apple Store and Google Play or at: education.vic.gov.au/mchapp.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Early Childhood Education Jenny Mikakos
“We know more and more parents access their information online and the MCH App provides a useful and trusted resource that families can use every day.”
“Victoria’s world-class Maternal and Child Health Services deliver vital parenting support and this app is just another way of reaching parents.”
“The early years can shape a child’s entire life – that’s why providing trusted information is so important for Victorian parents.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020