New Parents

Congratulations on the arrival of your child! A new baby can bring a lot of joy to our lives, and also a lot of changes. Many new parents find it hard. The support of your loved ones can be helpful. Spend time with your parents, parents-in-law, grandparents, and friends.

If you are feeling down or having a difficult time of two weeks or more, talk to a healthcare provider at the health centre. For more information, visit the Mental Wellness section.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Losing a baby to SIDS is a tragedy for parents, family, and the whole community. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the unexplained death of a sleeping infant. SIDS can happen at any time in the first year of life. Most infants who die from SIDS are less than six months old. It used to be called crib death.

Reducing the risks of SIDS

There is no known cause for SIDS. You can reduce the risk of SIDS by:

  • Always placing baby to sleep on their back
  • Sharing a room, not a bed, with baby
  • Breastfeeding
  • Giving baby a smoke free environment before and after birth, including making amautit smoke-free
  • Avoiding loose bedding like bumper pads, blankets, or toys

For information on creating a safe sleep environment and reducing the risk of SIDS, check out the Safe Sleep Fact Sheet.

Inunnguiniq Parenting program

Inunnguiniq is raising a child to become a capable human being.

Led by the Qaujigiartiit Health Research Centre (QHRC), the Inunnguiniq Parenting Program is based on Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ). The program was made in Nunavut, by Nunavummiut, for Nunavummiut, and rooted in the childbearing advice of an Elders Advisory Committee. The program was built on the “strengths of our communities, our relationships, resilience and love for our children.” It also creates space to discuss healing from trauma; emphasizes Inuit knowledge, stories and perspectives about childrearing; and the role of extended family and community in raising children.

Becoming an Inunnguiniq Facilitator

If you are interested in becoming an Inunnguiniq Facilitator, training is delivered by QHRC in both English and Inukitut throughout the year. Learn more about the Qaujigiartiit Health Research Centre's Inunnguiniq Parenting Program. 

Newborn Nutrition

For information on what to feed yourself and your baby, go to Nutrition for pregnant Women and Babies.