Close Menu
  • Home
  • What’s On
    • Events
    • Add an Event
    • Major Event
    • School Holiday Guide
  • Things To Do
    • Free Activities
      • Coastal Activities
      • Outdoor Activities
      • Picnic Spots
      • Playgrounds
      • Pram Walks
      • Rainy Day Activities
      • Walks and Bike Rides
    • Places to Visit
      • Attractions
      • Day Trips Away From The Peninsula
      • Galleries & Libraries
      • Historical
      • Markets
      • Tourism Centres
    • Places to Eat
      • Cafes
      • Restaurants
      • Wineries
    • Places To Stay
      • Accommodation
    • Shopping
      • Baby Goods – Sale & Hire
      • Child Friendly Shops
      • Made on the Peninsula
      • Online
      • Retail
    • At Home
      • Craft
      • Games
      • Recipes
  • Classes & Groups
    • Creative
      • Art and Craft
    • Playgroups
      • Central and Northern Peninsula
      • Southern Peninsula
      • Western Port
    • Sports
      • Fitness
      • Pre School Sports
      • Sports Classes and Tuition
  • Services
    • Health & Wellbeing
      • Dental
      • Health Care Practitioners
      • Hospitals
      • Support Groups
    • Pregnancy & Baby
      • Prenatal
        • Pre Natal Care/Birth Support
        • Pre Natal Fitness & Wellbeing
        • Maternal Health Centres
        • Maternity Products
      • PostNatal
        • Maternal Health Centres
        • Post Natal Support & Wellbeing
    • Special Needs
      • Activities for Special Needs
      • Support for Special Needs
      • Therapists for Special Needs
    • Education & Childcare
      • Daycare
      • Kindergartens
      • Schools
    • Finance
      • Finance
    • Photography
      • Photography
    • Child Safety & Wellbeing
      • Child Safety/First Aid
      • Emergency Numbers
  • Articles
    • Education
    • Finances
    • Health
    • Parenting Articles
    • Places to Eat
    • Pregnancy & Baby
    • Reviews
    • Member Questions
  • Parties
    • Celebrate – Party Ideas
    • Entertainment
    • Suppliers
    • Venues
  • Giveaways
  • Advertise With Us
  • About Us
    • Contact Us
  • Testimonials
  • Giveaways
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
Friday, August 8
  • Advertise With Us
  • About Us
    • Contact Us
  • Testimonials
  • Giveaways
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram Pinterest
Peninsula Kids
  • Home
  • What’s On
    • Events
    • Add an Event
    • Major Event
    • School Holiday Guide
  • Things To Do
    • Free Activities
      • Coastal Activities
      • Outdoor Activities
      • Picnic Spots
      • Playgrounds
      • Pram Walks
      • Rainy Day Activities
      • Walks and Bike Rides
    • Places to Visit
      • Attractions
      • Day Trips Away From The Peninsula
      • Galleries & Libraries
      • Historical
      • Markets
      • Tourism Centres
    • Places to Eat
      • Cafes
      • Restaurants
      • Wineries
    • Places To Stay
      • Accommodation
    • Shopping
      • Baby Goods – Sale & Hire
      • Child Friendly Shops
      • Made on the Peninsula
      • Online
      • Retail
    • At Home
      • Craft
      • Games
      • Recipes
  • Classes & Groups
    • Creative
      • Art and Craft
    • Playgroups
      • Central and Northern Peninsula
      • Southern Peninsula
      • Western Port
    • Sports
      • Fitness
      • Pre School Sports
      • Sports Classes and Tuition
  • Services
    • Health & Wellbeing
      • Dental
      • Health Care Practitioners
      • Hospitals
      • Support Groups
    • Pregnancy & Baby
      • Prenatal
        • Pre Natal Care/Birth Support
        • Pre Natal Fitness & Wellbeing
        • Maternal Health Centres
        • Maternity Products
      • PostNatal
        • Maternal Health Centres
        • Post Natal Support & Wellbeing
    • Special Needs
      • Activities for Special Needs
      • Support for Special Needs
      • Therapists for Special Needs
    • Education & Childcare
      • Daycare
      • Kindergartens
      • Schools
    • Finance
      • Finance
    • Photography
      • Photography
    • Child Safety & Wellbeing
      • Child Safety/First Aid
      • Emergency Numbers
  • Articles
    • Education
    • Finances
    • Health
    • Parenting Articles
    • Places to Eat
    • Pregnancy & Baby
    • Reviews
    • Member Questions
  • Parties
    • Celebrate – Party Ideas
    • Entertainment
    • Suppliers
    • Venues
  • Giveaways
Peninsula Kids
Home»Pregnancy & Baby»Where to have your baby
Pregnancy & Baby

Where to have your baby

9 Mins Read
Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email
Share
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Email
By Jolyon Ford

The model of care and the location of care are obviously closely related. As can be seen, some providers offer home birth services, others are based in a hospital.

According to US data, nearly 100% of births were outside hospitals in 1900, 44% in 1940 and 1% by 1969. Since then 98-99% of births have been in a hospital. The same pattern is seen in most developed countries. After the Second World War, the ability to manage infection with antibiotics and haemorrhage with new drugs, surgery, anaesthesia and blood transfusion resulted in a significant drop in maternal death rates. In addition, standards of maternity care improved. Hospitals gained the reputation as the safest place to have your baby, although this may have been due to improvements in practice rather than the location of the birth.

Home birth has continued in small numbers in most developed countries, accounting for around 0.5-2% of births in Australia, the US and the UK, 3-4% in New Zealand but as high as 20% in the Netherlands. The recent empowering of women to make informed choice about their care has resulted in an increase in homebirth numbers in the last decade. Sitting somewhere between a home and a hospital birth is a birth centre. These are freestanding or connected with a nearby hospital and provide a low intervention service for low risk women.

Most national organisations acknowledge the right of women to make an informed choice about their location of birth but also advise that consideration is given to the individual circumstances and that those who are considered higher risk should have their birth in a hospital. Speak to your practitioner or do some investigating to find what services are available for you locally. There is no harm in arranging an appointment with a practitioner to discuss your options before you commit.

HOSPITAL BIRTH

Hospitals vary significantly from small rural hospitals to large city centres. Not surprisingly, smaller hospitals tend to manage lower risk cases and large town or city hospitals manage ones of greater complexity. This can mean that you plan to have your baby at your local hospital but if you go into labour very prematurely or develop an early complication such as pre-eclampsia you may be advised to transfer to a bigger hospital where more resources are available. Fortunately, these complications are rare and most women will give birth in their planned hospital. If you have medical issues, speak to your team about whether this would influence the location of birth. Most maternity hospitals provide midwifery and obstetric care (sometimes GP obstetricians), anaesthetic support for epidurals and if surgery is needed, operating theatres, paediatricians and neonatal nurses for newborn care, often in a dedicated neonatal unit or special care nursery, pathology for blood tests, radiology for ultrasound, a blood bank or access to blood products in case of bleeding, and the support of other practitioners in the hospital if needed. Hospitals will have access to other services such as a diabetes unit, and allied health support including physiotherapy, dietetics and social work. This gives them the ability to manage anything from a normal birth through to medical or pregnancy related complications.

Hospital birth

[ + ] Most hospitals have services to cover normal birth, routine and emergency investigations and the management of problems if they arise. They have urgent access to emergency care and a range of specialist services. Larger hospitals provide high levels of expertise for rare and complex problems.

[ − ] Provide a more medical model of care that can be associated with higher levels of intervention.

Larger hospital-based services can seem less personal and may not be able to offer one-to-one care. Some smaller hospitals do not offer all services and transfer may be required if preterm birth or more complex issues arise. Private hospital birth is expensive and may not completely be covered by insurance.

BIRTHING UNIT

Some areas have birthing units that may be on the same site as a hospital, or freestanding in a town or neighbourhood on their own. In the UK, New Zealand and the Netherlands this accounts for around 10% of births. The care is provided by midwives and there is a strong focus on supporting women towards a natural birth with low levels of intervention. They use less technology and so tend not to use continuous fetal monitoring, vacuum or forceps to assist the birth. Some pain relief options are available, but procedures such as epidurals, instrumental birth or caesareans are not. If issues arise that require medical care, a transfer to the hospital is arranged, which can sometimes delay the care. In one UK study around a third of women having their first baby are transferred, but only 12% having their second required this.

Birthing units have a strong relationship with a local hospital and clear guidelines on when to transfer care. They are not suitable for women who may be at risk of difficulties in labour, or those with medical conditions such as blood pressure problems or diabetes.

Women in birthing units are more likely to achieve a natural vaginal birth, have one to one care in labour, and satisfaction levels are high. Intervention is lower, even when compared to similar low risk women labouring in a hospital.

Birthing Units

[ + ] Midwifery led care for low risk pregnancies. Strong focus on natural birth. Good outcomes for vaginal birth rates and lower levels of intervention. No evidence of additional risk for mother or baby.

[ − ] Around 20% still require transfer if requiring epidural or other medical assistance. First labourers more likely to require transfer. Potential delay in accessing emergency assistance whilst being transferred.

HOME BIRTH

Around 1-2% of women have their baby at home. Home can be a warm friendly environment with home comforts, a supportive group around you and for family or close friends to play a more active part in the birth. Many women hire an inflatable pool or use the bathtub for the support and relaxation of water. The room can be set up with music, soft light and aromas to suit your preferences. It is suggested that this more relaxed environment may reduce some of the stress hormones and allow your natural labour hormone, oxytocin, to work more effectively. There is no doubt from studies that women who labour at home have a greater likelihood of a natural vaginal birth and a lower caesarean section rate. A review of the published literature on place of birth in 2018 found evidence that low risk women who planned a homebirth had a much higher chance of having a natural vaginal birth (91% vs 54%) and so less chance of needing a caesarean (2.1% vs 9.6%) or an assisted vaginal birth with an instrument (6% vs 14%). These differences may not all be due to the location of birth. Women that choose home birth are more likely to be physically healthy, motivated, less likely to have social or medical risk factors, and so we would expect them to have better outcomes as a group. There have been very few trials that randomly allocate women to home or hospital birth so the effects of the differences in the two groups is hard to measure.

People may wonder if the reduced access to all the emergency treatments that hospitals have is a problem. In an emergency, there is no doubt that immediate life saving measures can make a difference. Examples include a very heavy bleed after the birth (post-partum haemorrhage), an eclamptic seizure or a baby that is not breathing.
A home birth midwife is trained to initiate important life-saving measures whilst calling for help and arranging an urgent transfer to hospital.

In almost all cases, this is sufficient until you get to the hospital where further care can be given. Whilst it is possible that this delay may cause problems, the chances of it happening are rare. For this reason, home birth is safest when you have a skilled home birth midwife who has a good relationship with the local hospital and a clear protocol on when transfer is appropriate. When looking at low risk cases, the safety outcomes for mother and baby are similar or a little better for homebirth compared to hospital birth. So a well organised homebirth program for low risk women is considered safe.

Studies have also shown that when higher risk women labour at home complication rates including the loss of the baby (9.3 in 1000 vs 3.5 in 1000) are more common than in hospital. In one study, the commonest risk factors for a bad outcome at home were having a previous caesarean and being post-term (over 42 weeks).

Transfer rates into hospital vary. In a review of 15 studies from around the world, around 39% of women in their first labour required a transfer during or after the birth. For women having their second baby or more, the transfer rate was 10%. Overall, only 3% had emergency transfers.

Home birth

[ + ] Your own environment, home comforts and a relaxing, less stressful ambience. High chance of vaginal birth and less chance of having a caesarean, instrumental birth or epidural. As safe as hospital for low risk births. High levels of satisfaction.

[ − ] Service not available in all areas. Private home birthing can be costly (but cheaper than private hospital birth). May require transfer into hospital (more common in first labour). Some emergency treatments are only available in hospital. Higher risk of newborn death for high risk pregnancies labouring at home.Dr Jolyon Ford is an Obstetrician and author of Pregnancy Wellbeing


Dr Jolyon Ford is an obstetrician and author of Pregnancy Wellbeing.

For all things pregnancy follow:

Instagram: @pregnancywellbeing

Facebook: @pregnancywellbeing

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

 

Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email

Comments are closed.

Calendar
Today
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
28
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
29
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
30
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
31
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
1
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
2
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
3
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
4
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
5
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
6
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
10:30 AM - MSO presents Jams for Juniors at McClelland
12:30 PM - MSO presents Jams for Juniors at McClelland
7
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
8
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
9
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
10
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
11
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
12
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
13
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
14
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
15
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
16
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
17
9:00 AM - Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
18
19
4:00 PM - Sk8house Sensory Sessions
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
July 28, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
July 29, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
July 30, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
July 31, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 1, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 2, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 3, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 4, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 5, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 6, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
MSO presents Jams for Juniors at McClelland
MSO presents Jams for Juniors at McClelland
August 6, 2025    
10:30 am - 11:15 am
McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery
  • Workshop/Class
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s Jams for Juniors comes to McClelland. Join Karen Kyriakou and MSO musicians for joyful music-making with little ones aged 0–5. Two fun-filled [...]
More Info
MSO presents Jams for Juniors at McClelland
MSO presents Jams for Juniors at McClelland
August 6, 2025    
12:30 pm - 1:15 pm
McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery
  • Workshop/Class
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s Jams for Juniors comes to McClelland. Join Karen Kyriakou and MSO musicians for joyful music-making with little ones aged 0–5. Two fun-filled [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 7, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 8, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 9, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 10, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 11, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 12, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 13, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 14, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 15, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 16, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
August 17, 2025    
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is bringing the enchanting world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to life through engaging marine education activities. This collaboration kicks off [...]
More Info
Sk8house Sensory Sessions
Sk8house Sensory Sessions
August 19, 2025    
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Sk8house
  • Workshop/Class
The Sk8house Sensory Sessions aim to be a calm, welcoming space for skaters of all abilities to roll their way — with reduced noise, gentle [...]
More Info
Events on July 28, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
28 Jul 25
Melbourne
Events on July 29, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
29 Jul 25
Melbourne
Events on July 30, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
30 Jul 25
Melbourne
Events on July 31, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
31 Jul 25
Melbourne
Events on August 1, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
1 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 2, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
2 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 3, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
3 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 4, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
4 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 5, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
5 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 6, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
6 Aug 25
Melbourne
MSO presents Jams for Juniors at McClelland
MSO presents Jams for Juniors at McClelland
6 Aug 25
Langwarrin
MSO presents Jams for Juniors at McClelland
MSO presents Jams for Juniors at McClelland
6 Aug 25
Langwarrin
Events on August 7, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
7 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 8, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
8 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 9, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
9 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 10, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
10 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 11, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
11 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 12, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
12 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 13, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
13 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 14, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
14 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 15, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
15 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 16, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
16 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 17, 2025
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
Dive into Immersive Adventure with Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Melbourne!
17 Aug 25
Melbourne
Events on August 19, 2025
Sk8house Sensory Sessions
Sk8house Sensory Sessions
19 Aug 25
Carrum Downs
Visit Our Advertisers
ABOUT

Established in 2006, Mornington Peninsula News Group (MPNG) is a locally owned and operated, independent media company.

MPNG publishes two glossy magazines: Peninsula Essence and Peninsula Kids.

MPNG also publishes five weekly community newspapers: the Western Port News, Mornington News, Southern Peninsula News, Frankston Times and Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News.

ADVERTISE WITH US

Instagram
Mornington Peninsula Indoor Soccer

Come play futsal at the Civic Centre in Mornington. MPIS strives to provide an environment for kids to feel safe, enjoy the game whatever their level, and make new friends.

Register your team's interest here:
https://www.mpindoorsoccer.com.au/

#mornpen #soccer #indoorsoccer #mornpenindoorsoccer #mpis
•
Follow
Mornington Peninsula Indoor Soccer Come play futsal at the Civic Centre in Mornington. MPIS strives to provide an environment for kids to feel safe, enjoy the game whatever their level, and make new friends. Register your team's interest here: https://www.mpindoorsoccer.com.au/ #mornpen #soccer #indoorsoccer #mornpenindoorsoccer #mpis
8 hours ago
View on Instagram |
1/9
Monash University is conducting a study to better understand the challenges and support needs for parents and/or caregivers related to children’s sleep and feeding routines. Your input will help enhance resources and support for families.

To take part in the survey or learn more use the link: https://monash.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8A4012eElHQ1NQi
•
Follow
Monash University is conducting a study to better understand the challenges and support needs for parents and/or caregivers related to children’s sleep and feeding routines. Your input will help enhance resources and support for families. To take part in the survey or learn more use the link: https://monash.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8A4012eElHQ1NQi
1 day ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
Join McClelland and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for a music workshop on Sat 6 Sept! With guidance from MSO musicians, participants aged 10-14 will develop music skills, experiment with composition, and co-create a brand-new piece to be performed in the MSO in Your Neighbourhood concert in Mornington. 

Learn more. at this link: https://mcclelland.org.au/events/creative-music-workshop

@mcclellandgallery McClelland Sculpture Park+Gallery 
#mso #yourneighbourhoodconcert #mcclelland #creativemusicworkshop
•
Follow
Join McClelland and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for a music workshop on Sat 6 Sept! With guidance from MSO musicians, participants aged 10-14 will develop music skills, experiment with composition, and co-create a brand-new piece to be performed in the MSO in Your Neighbourhood concert in Mornington. Learn more. at this link: https://mcclelland.org.au/events/creative-music-workshop @mcclellandgallery McClelland Sculpture Park+Gallery #mso #yourneighbourhoodconcert #mcclelland #creativemusicworkshop
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
Just announced: 
Dr Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas Live in Concert

This festive season, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra brings to life the beloved classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas, starring Jim Carrey. 

Watch Cindy Lou Who on the big screen as she takes matters into her own hands and turns both Whoville and the Grinch’s world upside down, inside out and funny side up in her search for the true meaning of Christmas. 

Composed by the late, great composer James Horner, witness the MSO perform the magical score live to screen this December. 

Thursday 4 December at 7.30pm
Friday 5 December at 7.30pm
Saturday 6 December at 1pm
Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall

Waitlist presale
Thursday 7 August at 10am

General public tickets on sale
Friday 8 August at 10am 

Sign up for presale access: https://bit.ly/41lB5MQ

#howthegrinchstolechristmas @melbournesymphonyorchestra
•
Follow
Just announced: Dr Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas Live in Concert This festive season, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra brings to life the beloved classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas, starring Jim Carrey. Watch Cindy Lou Who on the big screen as she takes matters into her own hands and turns both Whoville and the Grinch’s world upside down, inside out and funny side up in her search for the true meaning of Christmas. Composed by the late, great composer James Horner, witness the MSO perform the magical score live to screen this December. Thursday 4 December at 7.30pm Friday 5 December at 7.30pm Saturday 6 December at 1pm Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall Waitlist presale Thursday 7 August at 10am General public tickets on sale Friday 8 August at 10am Sign up for presale access: https://bit.ly/41lB5MQ #howthegrinchstolechristmas @melbournesymphonyorchestra
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s Jams for Juniors comes to McClelland. Join Karen Kyriakou and MSO musicians for joyful music-making with little ones aged 0–5. Two fun-filled sessions on 6 Aug & 3 Sept. 
Tickets required for all. Book now.

https://mcclelland.org.au/events/mso-presents-jam-for-juniors-at-mcclelland

@mcclellandgallery McClelland Sculpture Park+Gallery 
#jamsforjuniors #mso
•
Follow
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s Jams for Juniors comes to McClelland. Join Karen Kyriakou and MSO musicians for joyful music-making with little ones aged 0–5. Two fun-filled sessions on 6 Aug & 3 Sept. Tickets required for all. Book now. https://mcclelland.org.au/events/mso-presents-jam-for-juniors-at-mcclelland @mcclellandgallery McClelland Sculpture Park+Gallery #jamsforjuniors #mso
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
…asking for a friend. 
👍 up high
❤️ down low
•
Follow
…asking for a friend. 👍 up high ❤️ down low
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
No Food Shaming.

If you grew up in the ‘80s, ‘90s, or early 2000’s, chances are you were taught to see food through a moral lens: veggies were “good,” chocolate was “bad,” and fat was something to fear. That messaging stuck.

So now, when you reach for a bag of chips after a long day or say yes to dessert, a quiet voice in the back of your mind is likely to whisper: “You shouldn’t.” You feel like you’ve done something wrong – simply for eating something you enjoy. And here’s the thing: our kids are watching. They’re listening. The way we talk about food becomes the way they relate to it.

If you want to raise confident eaters, it’s time to let go of the “good” vs “bad” food narrative and allow your kids to enjoy food without guilt or shame. Let’s be real; some foods are more nutrient-dense than others. But that doesn’t mean that we need to rank them on a scale. Instead of calling food “good” or “bad”, try talking about how it fits into the bigger picture of what our bodies need. 

Read on for a few ways to reframe the conversation:
https://peninsulakids.com.au/no-food-shaming

@nourishwithkarina Nourish with Karina 

#nofoodshaming
•
Follow
No Food Shaming. If you grew up in the ‘80s, ‘90s, or early 2000’s, chances are you were taught to see food through a moral lens: veggies were “good,” chocolate was “bad,” and fat was something to fear. That messaging stuck. So now, when you reach for a bag of chips after a long day or say yes to dessert, a quiet voice in the back of your mind is likely to whisper: “You shouldn’t.” You feel like you’ve done something wrong – simply for eating something you enjoy. And here’s the thing: our kids are watching. They’re listening. The way we talk about food becomes the way they relate to it. If you want to raise confident eaters, it’s time to let go of the “good” vs “bad” food narrative and allow your kids to enjoy food without guilt or shame. Let’s be real; some foods are more nutrient-dense than others. But that doesn’t mean that we need to rank them on a scale. Instead of calling food “good” or “bad”, try talking about how it fits into the bigger picture of what our bodies need. Read on for a few ways to reframe the conversation: https://peninsulakids.com.au/no-food-shaming @nourishwithkarina Nourish with Karina #nofoodshaming
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
🤪#bloodyrightitis #strangerthings
•
Follow
🤪#bloodyrightitis #strangerthings
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
Monday night funny. 
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣lol

#thepenthouse #foodhierarchy
•
Follow
Monday night funny. 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣lol #thepenthouse #foodhierarchy
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
9/9
View on Instagram
Subscribe to our Newsletter

Stay In The Know

Sign up to our free newsletter and receive weekly updates on events and things to do with kids on the Mornington Peninsula.

Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram Pinterest
© 2025 All Rights Reserved.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.