Recently had a baby or added a child to your policy? At Frank we like to make life easier, so we’ve pulled together these tips and resources to help you and your growing family. Need help with anything? Give us a call.

Help, ideas and info for your growing family needs

Your GP or childhood health nurse should always be your first port of call. You can call a maternal child health nurse (MCHN) on 1800 882 436.

At times you need some information or reassurance, and the internet has some great information, finding what’s ‘right’ for you can be tricky, but here’s some great resources that Frank likes:

  • Raising children network is an Australian parenting website supported by the Australian Government and partnering with research bodies like the Royal Children’s Hospital. The RCN covers everything from the first days of a newborn to dealing with teens.
  • There’s not one rule book for parenting. The Parent’s Helpline can listen, offer strategies and support so you never feel like you’re on your own.
  • The Australian Breastfeeding Association National Breastfeeding Helpline on 1800 686 268 provides 24 hour support to all family members. No question is too small.
  • PANDA is a free, national helpline that specialises in support for women, men and their families affected by perinatal anxiety and depression. The Helpline provides a safe and confidential space for any new or expecting parent struggling with the challenges of becoming a new parent

Maintaining social connections

Getting out and about and meeting other parents can be a bit awkward and daunting, but it’s a great opportunity to connect with local families and people in similar situations as you and your child.

  • Playgroups- toddler times and library activities are other great ways to connect. Ask at your local MCHN for recommendations.  
  • Local libraries have some great reading and rhyme times for kids during the week. Many are even doing online groups for those who can’t get out during COVID-19 restrictions.
  • ABC story time
  • Cosmic Yoga – yoga, mindfulness and relaxation for kids

Looking after yourself

Maintaining your nutrition

Being a parent often means putting your needs behind other’s, but maintaining your nutrition is essential in maintaining good health. And that’s important for everyone in your family.

  • Nutrition Australia has great tips and recipes for every day
  • Drink plenty of water – set reminders, mark lines on your drink bottle, put fresh cut fruit in a jug of water. Whatever helps!

Keep moving

Even after the worst night’s sleep, a walk in the fresh air will help. Be creative about how you get your steps in.

  • Download a free fitness app and challenge friends
  • If the weather’s bad walk around a shopping centre – you’re protected from the elements and close to toilets and change tables
  • Join a parent and bub class
  • YouTube is full of free exercise and yoga tutorials

Put you first

‘Self care’ is NOT having a shower and doing the supermarket alone (but sometimes that feels great too!).

  • Listen to a podcast, read a book, meditate
  • Attend a parent and bubs movie session
  • Take time for an elaborate skin care routine
  • Go window shopping

Mental health

When you become a parent, you become a new person. And that takes some adjusting. It’s normal to feel some anxiety or stress at times, however if you don’t feel like your usual self for a length of time don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

  • Talk to others on the phone, Zoom/Skype or other online forums. There’s no doubt that others feel the same as you.
  • Speak with your maternal child health nurse
  • Connect you and your partner with other parents
  • Beyond Blue is a wealth of information including online chat rooms for social connection
  • Lifeline – call 13 11 14 for crisis support and suicide prevention

Health insurance and growing families FAQs

Do children have waiting periods?

Only if the primary member still does. When a baby is born or you are adding a child to your policy, if you’re still serving waiting periods your dependants will also have them too.

Do I need to change cover when I have had a baby?

If you’re on a single or couples policy, you’ll need to change to a single parent or family policy once the baby is born. If you have other children, your newest child will simply be added to the family policy. Give Frank a call and we will sort this out for you.

Time to review your cover?

Has your life changed, or your baby changed your life? Babies have a way of changing your needs and priorities. If your lifestyle has changed, it could be a good time to make sure you’re covered for anything you might need.

What are antenatal and postnatal classes?

For extra support for you and baby during this time, Frank Lots Extras pays a benefit for antenatal and postnatal classes such as lactation consultants and services like physiotherapy.

Antenatal and postnatal classes that frank may pay a benefit on include:

  • Birth and labour preparation classes
  • Lactation consultations
  • Breastfeeding classes

Benefits can be claimed for sessions and courses provided by registered midwives or physiotherapists in a private practice.

Babies, life and health insurance