Manchester Health Visitors

22/10/2026

Would you know what to look for before buying a child's costume?

Before your little ghosts, witches and superheroes head out this season, check their costume has a UKCA or CE mark.

Remember, no costume is completely fireproof. Costumes can catch fire if they come into contact with naked flames, fireworks, sparklers or candles.

✅ Check for the safety mark
✅ Keep away from naked flames
✅ Supervise children around fireworks and sparklers

Let's keep Halloween and Bonfire Night safe for everyone. 🎭🎆

21/10/2026

Your baby’s health comes before everyone else’s feelings!

Looking after your baby’s health includes taking everyday steps to reduce their risk of infection, especially in the first few weeks of life when they are most vulnerable.

Simple actions like encouraging visitors to wash their hands before they hold your baby, and asking visitors (or even strangers) not to kiss your baby, help to protect them.

Unfortunately, we hear from parents and carers that sometimes, their family and friends might be upset by these boundaries. But this Infection Prevention Week, we're here to remind you that this is your baby, and these are your boundaries.

It’s okay to prioritise your baby’s wellbeing. Taking these steps doesn’t mean you’re being overprotective or overcautious – it means you’re following the latest advice to help keep your baby safe. You get to decide what’s best for your baby.

If you need help having these conversations 👉 https://bit.ly/4xU5LT6

Our infection prevention guidance is aimed at babies in the first few months of life, although it is sensible to practice hand washing with older babies and children. As they grow and get bigger, their immune systems will have had chance to develop. When it comes to setting boundaries with visitors, please continue to set your boundaries for as long as you feel comfortable.

15/10/2026

Children’s brains are like sponges.

From your words, to your actions – they'll copy everything you do, including your screen use habits.

Try to be mindful of how often you use screens around your little ones.

Visit Best Start in Life for more guidance on healthy routines, screen-use limits, and better content choices.

13/10/2026

Did you know a bright coat could make a difference to your child’s safety?

Before we know it the clocks will change and our children will be heading to and from school in the dark. Wearing a brighter coloured coat can help them be seen more easily by drivers as the nights draw in.

If your child or their school insists on a darker colour you can add reflective strips to increase visibility.

More tips on staying safe this autumn: https://capt.org.uk/autumn-safety/

12/10/2026

Early years education and childcare can benefit your child and your family 🌻

If you have a child aged 3 or 4 years old, you can get 15 hours childcare per week over 38 weeks, regardless of income levels, benefit status, or family circumstances.

Visit Best Start in Life to see how you and your family could benefit.

04/10/2026

Infection Prevention Week 2026 is coming up on 19-25 October 📣

This year’s theme is ‘Your baby, your boundaries’. Too many parents tell us they’ve felt awkward, embarrassed of even guilty for asking visitors to wash their hands or not to kiss their baby. This week, we’re reminding you that protecting your baby is never something you need to justify and is always the right call.

It’s okay to prioritise your baby’s wellbeing. Taking these steps doesn’t mean you’re being overprotective or overcautious – it means you’re following the latest advice to help keep your baby safe. You get to decide what’s best for your baby.

Learn more about Infection Prevention Week 2026 👉 https://bit.ly/3UgY7E0

01/10/2026

23/09/2026

📝👶 Feeling prepared can help when a baby’s crying becomes overwhelming.

The ICON Crying Plan helps parents and carers think ahead about how they can stay calm and who they can turn to for support during stressful moments.

⬇️ Download your FREE ICON Crying Plan today:
🔗 www.iconcope.org/iconweek

22/09/2026

👨 👶💙 Fathers, partners and male carers play a vital role in supporting babies and families.

One of the key themes of is improving engagement with fathers and men, ensuring they receive the information, support and reassurance they need to cope with infant crying.

📖 Learn more about the ICON message at: www.iconcope.org/iconweek

21/09/2026

👶💜 It’s the start of !

This week we’re raising awareness of infant crying and sharing the important message: Babies cry, you can cope.

Every parent and carer can find crying difficult at times. ICON provides practical advice and support to help keep babies safe and support family wellbeing.

🔗 Find out more and access resources at www.iconcope.org/iconweek