Film screening helps young mums build their village

A FREE, parent-friendly movie screening in Geelong is aiming to help younger mums and mums-to-be build connections and support networks early in their parenting journey.

Community support organisation Meli will host a special screening of Paddington in Peru at The Pivotonian Cinema on February 4 and is inviting women aged 26 and under who are pregnant or have children under five to come along.

The event is part of Meli’s Connecting program, which supports younger parents by creating relaxed opportunities to meet others in similar life stages.

Meli’s Lindsay Shaw said the screening offered a simple and enjoyable way for local mums to connect.

“At Meli, we know the importance of mums being able to connect with others who are facing the same joys and challenges of parenthood,” she said.

“From exchanging tips and tricks to having someone who understands the many ages and stages of young children, these connections are so valuable.

“Creating a village with other likeminded mums can help lighten the heavy load of parenting.”

Before the film, attendees will hear a short introduction to Meli’s Connecting team, including facilitators from the Bumps to Bubs program, which supports young mums and mothers-to-be through the early stages of parenthood during school terms.

Each year, Meli’s Connecting team supports hundreds of families and operates across community centres in Greater Geelong, Golden Plains Shire and the Surf Coast.

The screening will take place on Wednesday, February 4, at 1pm at The Pivotonian Cinema in South Geelong.

The session is parent-friendly, and mums are welcome to feed, change nappies or step out at any time during the movie.

Tickets are free but limited and can be booked through Humanitix. Head to events.humanitix.com/free-young-bubs-connect-paddington-movie-day