Information, resources and reassurance for new parents navigating the highs and lows of life with a baby
The birth of a first baby is one of the biggest life transitions an adult will experience. Major life changes are always accompanied by mixed feelings and most parents feel under-equipped for the tasks of infant care and managing a household with a baby.
This website contains information about common experiences in the early months of parenthood and some effective ways of thinking about and managing them.
All information on this website is drawn from up-to-date research and the experiences of many parents of new babies. We hope that you find the site helpful as you learn to live with your first baby.
www.whatwerewethinking.org.au content was developed with funding from the Australian Government and the Jack Brockhoff Foundation. The authors have sole responsibility for the content of the website.
The site content is provided for your information; if you have comments you are welcome to submit them to:
This site is not a substitute for advice from your family doctor or another health professional.
If you feel sad, worried, or irritable most of the time, then it is important to talk to your family doctor.
For Parents »
» Introduction
» 'About Babies' Worksheets
» 'About Mothers & Fathers' Worksheets
For Professionals »
» Background Theory
» Research and Evidence
» Frequently Asked Questions
WWWT Blog »
Work at home and in the office
Let’s be frank, the workload is massive with the arrival of a baby. For Dad, it’s a challenge heading off to work each day slightly sleep deprived and possibly bearing unnoticed milk vomit on your shoulder.
The internet helps new parents feel less alone
While Janet Michelmore AO may appear confident, when she had her first child she certainly wasn't! Learn about the new blog and app that can help others, like her, who often feel unsure and alone as they commence their parenting journey.
Could postnatal depression be anxiety?
Research Fellow at the Jean Hailes Research Unit, Dr Karen Wynter, joins Penny Johnstone on ABC Melbourne's Babytalk to discuss whether some cases of anxiety could be misdiagnosed as postnatal depression.



