Looking for free parenting support services online or parenting support in Shellharbour and the Illawarra? Wondering where to find parenting support near you, or what help is actually available?
We get it – because we’ve been there too.
Here at Parents Guide Illawarra, we help local parents find what’s on, including family support. We’re local mums – and like most parents, we’ve had seasons where sleep was broken, feeding felt overwhelming, toddler behaviour pushed us to the edge, and we wondered… are we doing this right?
What we’ve learned is this: you’re not meant to figure it all out on your own. Seeking post-natal support and advice is a brilliant way to care for yourself and your family. It’s a sign of your care, not weakness.
This is why we love that Karitane offers free parenting support services online across NSW, along with local family support programs in Shellharbour and Warrawong.

One of the most common things parents search is: “Where can I find parenting support near me?”
And the truth is many of us parents are struggling. Not enough of us talk about:
Karitane exists to support families through these moments – with practical, judgement-free, evidence-based help. Both online and through local support programs.
Families in the Illawarra can access support locally through Karitane’s Parenting Centres in Shellharbour and Warrawong, as well as a range of virtual services available anywhere in NSW from the comfort of home.
Located in the Stockland Shopping Centre Community Room in Shellharbour, Karitane’s Early Parenting Centre provides free services for families with children from birth to age 5. Local parents and caregivers can get vital support and guidance on sleep and settling, age-appropriate routines, multiple babies, breastfeeding, feeding and nutrition, toddler behaviour, adjusting to parenting and pre and postnatal mental health.

Many parents also ask – “Are there online parenting support services in NSW?“
You don’t need to know exactly what you need – their team helps guide you. Enquire with Karitane Shellharbour and find the best post natal support for your family here.
Karitane can support you with:
It’s personalised, practical support based on your situation.
If you’re looking for breastfeeding support, Karitane offers an online breastfeeding clinic you can book directly.
Ideal when:
Click to book your FREE Karitane breastfeeding support online.
Karitane runs free online parenting webinars, covering:
A great way to access expert advice from home.
Register for upcoming webinars here.

For parents searching “Parenting support Illawarra” or “family support services near me”, Karitane also offers local, in-person support.
Karitane’s Shellharbour Parenting Centre provide personalised support from experienced Child and Family Health Nurses and clinicians who can help with:
Support is personalised and practical. Parents can self-refer to access support and work with the Karitane team to build practical skills and confidence in caring for their child. Enquire or access support at Karitane’s Shellharbour Parenting Centre here.
This gives families flexible access to support when needed. Book your appointment online at Karitane’s Parenting Support Warrawong centre here.

Karitane’s Volunteer Family Connect program connects families experiencing parenting challenges with children aged from birth to 5 years with trained volunteers, who provide practical and emotional support during the early years of parenting.
Volunteers are skilled, trained and supervised. They are caring, experienced, respectful, and confidential. They help by being good listeners and are non-judgmental and friendly to you and your family.
Volunteers can assist with:
A powerful reminder that parenting isn’t meant to be done alone.
If you are a parent with child under 5 years and live in Shellharbour area and would like a volunteer – fill in this short form here and their team will be in touch.
Volunteers make a life changing difference to families – if you’d like to learn more about volunteering for the program, please click here and complete the short form, alternatively you can email [email protected] or call 0412 299 092.

Karitane supports parents through:
This early support can make a huge difference.
Access support in Shellharbour and Warrawong or learn more here

If you’re wondering how to access parenting support in NSW, the easiest first step is to reach out to Karitane.
If you have a quick parenting question, you can also call the Karitane Careline (1300 227 464) to speak with a qualified Child and Family Health Nurse.
Karitane is a not-for-profit organisation and registered charity committed to making parenting support accessible for all families. Learn more about our services or access support at karitane.com.au.
Karitane will:
Start here by simply actioning your very own free, self-referral.
All Karitane services are:

You don’t have to do this alone. There is support available. It’s free. And it can make a real difference.
Karitane is here to be your village.
Thank you to Karitane for supporting this article and for the incredible work they do supporting local Illawarra families. Learn more and get in touch with Karitane here.
Finally, make the most of family life in our stunning Illawarra – Subscribe to the ultimate guide to family living weekly email by Parents Guide. Say NO to bored kids and get inspired! Click and sign up for our Parents Newsletter here. Get all the local inspo!
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