Connecting2u (C2u) is an innovative opt-in text messaging service designed to provide parents and carers with timely child development information, parenting tips, and health check reminders. The program aims to support the well-being and health of families in the Mount Isa and surrounding communities.

• Connecting2u provides culturally tailored messages for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents and carers.
• The service offers a range of topics, including introducing solids, managing babies’ sleep, and prioritizing self-care.
• It also sends reminders for immunizations and health checks, helping families stay up-to-date with key milestones and overall health and wellbeing.

A visit by the program’s team was held to promote the service among health services and community groups that support expectant parents and families with young children. The aim was to ensure that as many families as possible could benefit from the program. “To ensure Connecting2u can help as many families in the region as possible, we’re raising awareness about the program among health services and community groups that support expectant parents and families with young children.”— Ms. Philipson
The program was launched in Queensland in 2014, but it has since expanded to cover the first 2000 days of a child’s life (0-5 years old) and now offers free health and wellbeing advice and timely healthcare reminders during pregnancy.

As of March 2025, expectant Queensland parents can sign up for the program for free. The program has a 99 per cent satisfaction rate, demonstrating its effectiveness in addressing the needs of new parents and carers.

“Connecting2u has a 99 per cent satisfaction rate, demonstrating that the service effectively addresses the needs of new parents and carers by providing relevant, timely information.”

— Ms. Philipson
The program helps parents and carers feel more confident, reassured, and empowered to give their children the best start in life by delivering clear, consistent, and strengths-based messages. Key Messages

• Introducing solids: how to get started and what to expect
• Managing babies’ sleep: tips and strategies for a good night’s sleep
• Prioritizing self-care: making time for yourself as a parent

The program also addresses common concerns and questions faced by new parents, such as introducing solids, managing babies’ sleep, and prioritizing their own self-care. Benefits of the Connecting2u Program

• Empowers parents and carers with relevant, timely information
• Helps families stay up-to-date with key milestones and overall health and wellbeing
• Provides culturally tailored messages for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents and carers

By signing up for the Connecting2u program, expectant Queensland parents can receive timely health and wellbeing advice and healthcare reminders during pregnancy, helping them prepare for the arrival of their baby and set them up for a healthy start in life.