Community
14 May, 2025
Health messaging service gives new parents a head start
Connecting2u delivers regular text messages with information, tips, and health check reminders.
A free text messaging service coordinated by Children’s Health Queensland is providing support to North West parents and carers during the first five years of their child’s life.
Connecting2u, a statewide initiative, delivers regular text messages with information, tips, and health check reminders to help ensure babies stay healthy, happy, and strong.
Since its inception in 2014, Connecting2u has assisted thousands of families across Queensland, with over 16,000 parents and carers currently enrolled. The program has recently expanded to include an antenatal service.
Expectant parents in Queensland can now sign up from six weeks of pregnancy to receive regular antenatal text messages.
These messages cover topics such as available models of care, nutrition during pregnancy, physical and emotional changes, self-care, health checks, ultrasounds and blood tests, and bonding and attachment.
In addition, culturally tailored messaging has been introduced for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents and carers.
Alanna Philipson, principal project officer for the Connecting2u program, recently visited the North West to provide training and insights to staff, encouraging consumer engagement.
“We know the first 2000 days are critical for a child’s growth and long-term development. Connecting2u is an important tool to support parents and carers on their parenting journey,” she said.
“Connecting2u’s new antenatal messaging service is a wonderful tool to help guide expectant parents to navigate the challenges and unknowns of pregnancy.”
Ms Philipson said the text messages included clear, evidence-based information, often written from a baby or child’s perspective, which research indicates is more engaging for parents and carers.
“It’s also important to ensure clinicians and health professionals have the knowledge about Connecting2u so they can share the resources available with their patients,” she said.
North West Hospital and Health Service CEO Sean Birgan emphasised the opportunity the program provided for remote parents to give their child the best start in life.
“Reassurance and support, especially for those living remote who may not have family nearby, is crucial for the parents’ or carers’ mental health,” he said.
“Having useful reminders and tips about child development helps families get ahead for a positive health journey.”
Visit www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/our-work/connecting2u for more information.