Tell us about yourself and your family
My husband Johnny and I moved from Penge to West Wickham in August 2013, when we were expecting our first baby. Poppy is now nearly three, and we have a second daughter, Holly, who is 14 months old.
What is your experience of the NCT?
We attended a NCT antenatal course in November and December 2013, with the aim of meeting other expectant parents who lived in the same area, as well as learning about the birth process. This has turned out to be one of the best decisions we made, as the couples in our NCT group were all really lovely, and we are all still good friends now. The support that we gave each other during those first few months was invaluable, and has continued on as our children have grown older. We used to meet up for coffees or lunch while we were on maternity leave, and still meet up now with our children when time permits. The dads will go out for the occasional curry, while the mums will meet up for dinner as well. We have an annual NCT Christmas party, which is great fun.
What is your current NCT role?
I’m the Advertising Coordinator, so each quarter I will liaise with companies who wish to place advertisements in our First Words digital magazine, and/or flyers in the goody bags we distribute at Nearly New Sales and Welcome Events.
What do you like about volunteering for NCT Beckenham and Borders?
The fellow volunteers are all really friendly, and I believe that NCT as an organisation provides invaluable support for new parents. I’ve also learnt some new skills, and volunteering for Beckenham and Borders gives me an interest outside of my family and work.
Any advice for anyone expecting their first baby?
Try and go with the flow, especially in the early days. Babies tend to follow their own timetable, so don’t fret if you are late for something. Sleep when you can, it will make you feel so much better.
What has been the biggest learning curve about becoming a parent?
Every child is different, you can read any number of books to pick up hints and tips,
Meet a Committee Member
Julie Cleary, Advertising Coordinator and mum to Poppy (3) and Holly (1)