Hello 2025! Jo, Head of Partnerships at Kids Matter, encourages us to surround ourselves with people who will champion and encourage us this year.
Happy New Year! As 2025 unfolds, January brings us keen and excited for new year’s resolutions, full of expectations for change. However, if you’re anything like me, you’ve tripped and stumbled over your best intentions by the end of January – leaving that new gym membership, for example, unused!
I’ve now learned that I can’t sustain change on my own; I need backup! People who will encourage me, check in with me as to how I’m doing, celebrate my progress, and are on the journey with me. Then I feel part of something – that I’m not alone in the challenge and I can share my good days and bad days along the way.
The power of being part of a group is one of the huge strengths of the Kids and Babies Matter groups that run across the country. As parents facing similar challenges gather each week, the topics are discussed and the wisdom from the group is shared. The unifying motivation of trying new parenting techniques – or sticking with challenging ones – brings a real sense of “we’re in this together.” Learning from shared parenting tips as the programme material unfolds means confidence grows as fellow parents try out new things and see positive change.
So, as you head into 2025 with your resolutions and goals, grab your friends! Just like in the Kids and Babies Matter groups, find people who will champion and encourage you. People who will celebrate your wins and support you when change feels challenging and tiring.
Together, we can encourage and support our way through 2025!