New Parents Group offers expertise Published Sept. 21, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Stephanie Ashley Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- New parents will have the opportunity to discuss important issues such as nutrition and childcare during a Health and Wellness Center sponsored New Parents Support Program, scheduled for Oct. 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Northern Lights Chapel here. "The program provides childcare, networking, and parental support through supplying parenting ideas, breastfeeding support, and nutritional guidance," said Sandra Horob, the HAWC dietician. The program will provide new parents the opportunity to ask advice from a registered nurse and fellow parents, as well as the new dietician. Donna Burt, the Minot Family Advocacy nurse, can address any health and growth concerns. "The new dietician is able to offer assistance with family menu planning, ideas on how to feed picky eaters and also planning meals for the whole family on a budget," said Burt. One of the main discussion topics will be breast feeding health and fighting childhood obesity. "When babies are nursed it helps them bond with the mother," said Horob. "Nursing also fights malnutrition, ear infections, upper respiratory disorders, and food allergies, keeps children at a healthy weight, and helps to build immunity to diseases." Though the group is focused on new parents, grandparents and caregivers are also welcome to attend. The group will support children from birth up to preschool age. "Our program is focused on post-birth childcare because there is also a Women, Infants and Children and Family Advocacy program for prenatal care," said Horob. Now that there is no longer a Mothers of Preschoolers program, the New Parents Support Program could fill in some of the gaps. In addition to helping provide valuable information on childcare and nutrition, it is also an opportunity for parents to meet with others in their community, giving their children a way to make new friends as well. "You will be able to keep your children entertained while still getting the information you need, as well as a chance for parents to relax," said Horob. "Additionally, healthy snacks will be provided and parents are welcome to come and go with their children according to their schedule." For more information, contact Donna Burt at 723-5140 or Sandra Horob at 723-2994.