Becoming a parent
The emotional journey of parenthood.
“It was so overwhelming. I couldn’t believe I was going to be a parent.” Kamal, Egypt
Becoming a parent is a life-changing moment. It is a time filled with emotions, challenges and lots of learning.
Raising a child takes time and resources. Yet many parents are under pressure to do it all alone.
That’s why UNICEF is calling for parents and caregivers to get the support they need to give their children the best possible start in life.
💙 Get expert tips on managing stress
Parenting and managing stress
Parenting is difficult and filled with stressful moments. We can’t avoid stress completely, but when it becomes too much, it can affect everything we do. The good news is there are ways we can stop stress from becoming overwhelming.
Explore our expert-backed tips to help reduce stress and prevent it from building up.
Remember, taking time for yourself isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. When we take care of ourselves, we can better take care of our children as well.
➡️ How do you manage stress as a parent? What works for you? Share your tips
UNICEF's Becoming a Parent video and the tips on managing stress as a parent were developed with support from Dr. Lisa Damour who is a psychologist, author and mother of two.
Millie Bobby Brown's parenting journey
Everyone experiences being a parent differently. UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Millie Bobby Brown shares a glimpse of what that looks like for her.
"I don't understand how that much happens in my heart."
Join our global parenting community
Investing in parents and caregivers
Supporting parenting helps families to thrive, creates brighter futures for children and builds stronger communities for all of us.
That’s why UNICEF is calling on governments, businesses and others to invest in parenting support and family-friendly policies.
Scaling up parenting support
Parenting programmes support caregivers with resources and services, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to provide nurturing care, as well as bolstering their own personal well-being.
Investing in family-friendly policies
Not only do family-friendly policies pay off in healthier, better-educated children, they contribute to better workforce productivity, healthier societies and stronger economies.
