Becoming a parent especially for the first time is a daunting experience.  

There are so many expectations, so much of responsibility so suddenly. In today’s Sri Lanka with more and more nuclear families and working mothers, new parents find themselves somewhat lost. There is no one to turn to and ask what they need at various stages in their parenting journey. 

Parenting courses are becoming the norm in developing countries where they are actively encouraged by governments, as essential learning. Lanka Hospitals initiated a programme through which parents who are expecting a child could be informed and educated on the necessary information. The 50th such programme was conducted on the 26th of July 2015.

Unlike in most other hospitals, this program at Lanka Hospitals is available free-of-charge to both parents. The program lays a lot of emphasis on the father just as much for the mother, befitting social changes in the modern society.

The program starts from about the 6th month of pregnancy. The couple is then exposed to various medical experts including obstetricians, gynecologists, physiotherapists, and other medical personnel who conduct discussions with the couples , educating them on the challenges ahead, and on what to expect at various stages of the pregnancy and thereafter. 

The brainchild of the Free Parent Crafting programme of Lanka Hospitals, Director - Medical Services, Dr. Wimal Karandagoda says the need for the program arose during discussion at Board level where many pediatricians were of the view that new parents were woefully unprepared for their new life role.

P K C Damayanthi, Deputy Chief Matron – Training & Development, in charge of the programme said, “During the programme, essential knowledge is imparted to the expectant mother on breast feeding techniques, while the father is also encouraged to try their hands on bathing and weaning their babies. New fathers who attended this course are very appreciative of this concept as the modern lifestyle; where both parents are almost always professionally occupied, demands the contribution of the father as well, in bringing up their child.” The panel conducting the course consists of eminent gynecologists and pediatricians in Sri Lanka and is conducted in the form of a workshop Leaflets and booklets further supplement the knowledge gained from the dicussions. Couples areencouraged to interact with the experts.

Lanka Hospital has a rich record of Pre and Post Natal care. The (In Vitro Fertilization) IVF clinic recently celebrated the birth of its 700th Baby. Lanka Hospitals is well known for specialized pediatric surgery and neurosurgery facilities and offers excellent postpartum care, proactive child development support and advice on baby care. With this Parent Crafting Program, Lanka Hospitals now offers a holistic birthing and parenting experience. 

The program is conducted on the last Saturday of every month from 9a.m. to 12p.m. at the Lanka Hospitals 10th floor auditorium. 

During the programme, all attendees are provided with refreshments, free of charge. Parents who attend 3 consecutive Parent Crafting Programmes are also entitled for discounts on selected services offered at the hospital.