MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Universal Parenting Place at Baptist Women’s Hospital is something new in Memphis.
It’s supposed to be a place where parents can ask any question and get help with any issue related to caring for their children.
“We want everyone to feel comfortable here. We want everyone to know that parenting is hard for everyone at some point along the way,” said Paige Marcantel, the site director.
She said the Universal Parenting Place is a no judgement zone.
No question is off limits.
“I think parents will receive number one a sense of emotional support a sense that they are not alone in their challenge,” she said.
A teething toddler, a colicky infant or even post partum depression.
The services provided run the gamut.
“We want people all across the developmental lines of their child to feel like they can call us,” said Marcantel.
There are two Universal Parenting Place sites in Memphis.
The other center is located at Knowledge Quest in South Memphis.
The centers are funded through a private foundation and the services are free to any parent.
“We’ve had people walk into the center. We’ve had people contact us through the website and we’ve had people call in,” Marcantel told us.
Memphis was chosen as a location for the centers for its unique challenges including poverty and infant mortality.
Parents can sign up for group sessions or individual counseling.
“It’s up to the parents to decide what and how many of the services they want to take part in while they’re here with us,” she said.
It’s a one stop shop for parents.
Advice, counseling, support and childcare while you get the help you need.
The goal of Universal Parenting Centers is to make Memphis families stronger.
