Finding connection in the early days of parenthood: A conversation with NCT

Becoming a parent can be magical, but let’s be honest, it can also be messy, exhausting and lonely. At The Together Project, we know that one of the most powerful things you can offer a new parent is connection, a moment of joy, a sense of belonging, and a friendly face that says you’re not alone.

That’s why we were thrilled to be invited by the NCT (National Childbirth Trust) to chat about our intergenerational baby and toddler group, Songs & Smiles, and how it’s supporting new parents through some of the most tender (and tiring!) stages of early parenthood.

In the podcast interview, our Interim CEO Alexa Sutheran, shared her story of joining Songs & Smiles as a new parent of two with her own mental health struggles, and how Songs & Smiles helped her to feel part of a community again:

“Looking back, I can see I had postnatal depression,” Alexa shared. “I didn’t realise it at the time but what I did know is that getting out to something that was welcoming, kind and full of joy really helped me feel like myself again.”

Why We Reached Out to NCT

We’ve always admired how NCT helps parents feel connected, informed and supported, and like us, they’re all about building stronger communities.

Songs & Smiles began when our founder, Louise, took her own NCT group to a care home for a sing-along. We’ve always felt that our work naturally complements what NCT offers: a safe space for parents to meet, talk, and feel supported in their early parenting journey.

We know from experience that once the official NCT classes finish, it can feel like a bit of a cliff edge. Where do you go next? Who’s still around you? What helps you feel part of something again?

That’s where Songs & Smiles comes in, it offers a gentle next step for parents, helping them continue their friendships, build new ones, and spend quality time with their baby in a space that’s welcoming, inclusive and full of meaning.

What Is Songs & Smiles?

Songs & Smiles is our free/donation-based intergenerational music group for 0–4’s, their grownups and older people living in care homes or assisted living schemes. Each session is full of: music, movement, bubbles, friendship and laughter.

But it’s also about more than just having fun. It’s about belonging, creating genuine, joyful relationships across the generations, and giving everyone in the room the chance to feel seen, valued and uplifted.

And for many, it’s also a way to give back, to contribute to their community in a gentle, joyful way. There’s something deeply fulfilling about seeing your child bring happiness to an older person’s day and making those unexpected friendships across generations.

Parents have told us:
“It’s so heartwarming seeing the residents smile and interact with my baby. It’s equally enjoyable for all generations.”

“It’s great! It’s good for me to get out of the house and be somewhere for a certain time and that my daughter is getting used to socialising with others. It’s absolutely fab.”

"Songs & smiles is the most wholesome thing ever. It’s fantastic to see all of the different generations together. Everyone gets so much from it! "

“Songs and smiles is our favourite time of the week. It's amazing to see the smiles on the faces of both the children and the residents. It really is the most joyful experience.”

“The best class I’ve been to on maternity leave.”

The impact: Smiles, support & mental health

For new parents, coming to Songs & Smiles can be a lifeline. Whether it’s your first baby or your third, early parenthood is a whirlwind, and sometimes just being around other people, in a supportive environment, can make all the difference.

For many parents, Songs & Smiles has become more than just an activity; it’s a place to feel seen, to take a breath, and to remember that you’re not alone.

As Alexa shared in the interview:

“You don’t need a special power, even if you’re struggling, everyone has the power to make a positive impact, just by turning up. You can’t help but leave with a smile.”

How We Can Work Together

We’d love for NCT groups to help spread the word about Songs & Smiles, whether that’s through newsletters, WhatsApp groups, social media or meetups. We know how trusted and well-loved NCT is in local communities, and we’d love to be a part of that wider support network for families.

We’re also keen to explore other ways we can collaborate. We’re always happy to hear from local area leads, breastfeeding supporters or volunteers who might like to work together.

Let's share the smiles

Parenthood can feel overwhelming and sometimes isolating. But in a world of nappy changes and night feeds, Songs & Smiles offers a space to reconnect with yourself, your baby, and your wider community.

If you’re part of NCT (as a leader, volunteer, or parent), please consider sharing this blog or the podcast interview with your group. You never know who might need that boost today.

And if you’re a new parent looking for something warm, welcoming and wonderful to do with your little one, come and join us for Songs & Smiles. It’s free to attend, fun for everyone, and full of the kind of joy that lingers long after the bubbles have popped.

Whether you come to share songs, make new friends, or just to get out of the house, you're contributing to something truly worthwhile. And we promise: you’ll leave with a smile.

Together, we can make the early days of parenthood a little brighter, one smile at a time.