Babies in Museums champion the potential of the heritage industry to improve the lives of babies, their parents and their families.

At Babies in Museums we recognise that new parents and in particular new mothers are at an increased risk of poor mental health. Data from the Maternal Mental Health Alliance shows that 1 in 5 women experience perinatal mental health problems. 70% of women who have recently had a baby either play-down or hide their mental health difficulties and suicide is the lead cause of maternal death in the first year postpartum. Museum communities can support new parents by providing a safe space and community. Museums can help with maternal loneliness and isolation by providing opportunities for creativity, welcome and relaxation.

Find out more about museums and how they can benefit early years development.

Our MANIFESTO 

• To provide new parents with practical information about visiting museums with babies. 
• To champion the role museums can play in supporting new parents through community, safe spaces and the ingredients for good mental health. 
• To demonstrate how museum and heritage environments benefit babies and their development.
• To support museums and the heritage sector to connect with their youngest visitors. To understand and cater to the needs of babies and their families.