You’re Not Alone on This Parenting Journey

From the moment expectant parents sense new life growing within, their hearts brim with joy. But along with that joy often comes a flood of questions, quiet worries, and moments of uncertainty. Parenthood is a journey of constant change, full of new responsibilities—from keeping a child healthy to supporting their emotional growth and guiding them through every important milestone. It’s a journey filled with love, yet at times it can feel overwhelming or even lonely.

But no parent has to walk this journey alone. Behind every family is a network of dedicated professionals whose expertise, compassion, and guidance help light the way. Their role goes far beyond offering advice. They empower caregivers with the tools, confidence, and reassurance needed to navigate the complexities of raising a child with clarity and care.

In this feature, we speak with two experts whose experience and dedication have touched the lives of countless families. Through their work, they help lift the emotional weight of parenting, provide reassurance during uncertain moments, and walk beside parents on this extraordinary journey.

Wunpen Kawayawong, a senior professional nurse at Ang Thong Hospital, brings over 38 years of experience in maternal and infant health. As a cornerstone of the hospital's breastfeeding clinic, she regularly prepares expectant mothers and offers attentive, ongoing support. Wunpen notes that parents’ questions often go beyond breastfeeding. Many are also seeking guidance on childbirth and newborn care. Beyond her medical expertise, she offers reassurance that helps families feel seen, supported, and confident. To many, she is more than a nurse. She is a mentor, a calming presence, and a trusted guide in early parenthood. 

“Breastfeeding really begins with that very first latch,” Wunpen shares warmly. “When the latch is just right, the baby feeds well, the mother avoids pain, and the whole experience feels much easier and less stressful. But if the latch isn’t quite right, it can cause pain and cracked nipples, which may discourage the mother from continuing to breastfeed.  

That’s why we teach a variety of techniques and always invite fathers to join the sessions because their support means the world when it’s time to feed. We do everything we can to help mothers feel confident and comfortable with breastfeeding before they leave the hospital. And if any challenges arise later, mothers can take comfort knowing they can always return to the breastfeeding clinic for help, so they’re never alone on this journey,” she adds gently.

During a child’s earliest months, parents often receive close support from a team of doctors and nurses who provide essential guidance on childcare. As children grow into their early childhood, this support doesn’t end — it simply evolves. Parents continue to be supported by a network of teachers and educational centers ready to assist, helping them move forward with confidence as they navigate each new stage.

One trusted figure on this journey is Pattaya Thongmaha, affectionately known as “Kru Nui.” As head of the Nuampradit Community Early Childhood Development Center, Kru Nui brings over 24 years of experience, especially working with children between the critical ages of 2 and 5.

A common question she often hears from parents is how their child’s development should progress at each stage and the best ways to support that growth. Kru Nui’s guidance helps parents feel empowered and reassured as they walk alongside their children during these important years. 

“Parents often ask about speech delays,” Kru Nui says. “They worry when their child isn’t speaking yet or begins speaking later than expected. In many cases, we find that excessive screen time is a contributing factor.”

She explains that some parents, due to limited time, turn to technology for support. For example, they may play ABC videos on repeat, hoping it will help their child learn. But what they often overlook is that technology lacks the emotional connection that only real human interaction can provide. It cannot engage with a child in the same meaningful way and may actually slow physical development, weaken concentration, and limit muscle growth.

“That’s why I always encourage parents to spend more quality time with their children,” she adds. “Reading stories, playing together, or simply having conversations can greatly support a child’s language development, focus, and motor skills.”  

Kru Nui fosters more than a school, she builds a community. “At our center, we have a LINE group chat to share daily updates with parents,” she explains. “This is especially helpful for younger children who are still adjusting. Some may cry at first, so regular updates help reassure parents and ease their worries.”

The dedication of Kru Nui and Nurse Wunpen reflects the vital role support networks play in a child’s early development—through healthcare, education, and community care. Each part of this network helps ensure children grow up in a nurturing environment, surrounded by love and support. These committed professionals stand beside parents, so they never have to face the journey of parenthood alone. Recognizing early childhood as the foundation for lifelong well-being, UNICEF is committed to strengthening these support systems to help every child thrive. 

“Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in laying the foundation for their children’s lives,” says Napat Phisanbut, Early Childhood Development Specialist at UNICEF Thailand. “That’s why UNICEF is committed to working with professionals who support parents at every stage. This includes initiatives to improve the quality of hospital-based parenting programmes, as well as efforts to strengthen the skills of early childhood caretakers so they can engage meaningfully with families. These professionals help equip parents with the knowledge, skills, and encouragement they need to raise their children with confidence and care. In turn, this support enables children to thrive, reach their full developmental potential, and grow up happy and well-supported.”

No matter how many questions or challenges parents may face on their parenting journey, they can take comfort in knowing that a strong network of experts, services, and programmes is always available to help. This support system ensures that no parent has to navigate the challenges of raising a child alone.