Professionals
The benefits of VIG as a strength-based intervention are mentioned in three NICE guidelines. Many perinatal mental health teams across the UK choose to learn VIG to further support their client families.
Babies1st offers professionals the following courses and facilities:
Introduction to Video interaction guidance (VIG)
This course is taught in 4 modules over 4 half days on-line or over two full days face to face. It gives participants the background and basic theoretical frameworks for Video Interaction Guidance. The main focus is the development of skills to identify attuned moments. You will also take part in role play where you will be filmed and given strength-based feedback. After this training you can start using VIG immediately, under the supervision of a registered VIG supervisor.
“We loved the balance of theory and skills. The interactive nature of the training meant we were engaged throughout. The training was really useful and helped me notice how much I know already. I also realised how much more I can learn. I cannot wait to start my supervised practice. The trainers are very knowledgeable, yet relaxed. They made us feel comfortable to think about our clients and how we can best use VIG in our work place.”
Facilitating parent baby groups. This training is delivered in 2 modules:
Module one: online one day training – providing information on working with parents and babies, universal features of groups, as well as on what makes parent baby groups special. Discussions in small and large groups focus on non-verbal communication, co-regulation and setting up face to face and online groups. We cover the basic principles of the Watch Wait Wonder approach, and how this can be applied in Baby Bonding groups. We also reflect on the impact of the current pandemic on new parents and babies and the provisions we can facilitate.
“The Perinatal Mental Health Team in Nottingham still talk about the Baby Watching training that you so kindly did for us at the end of 2020”.
“The content of the training was excellent, and Monika was a very effective facilitator. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day!” (OXPIP training April 2020)
Module two: 3 monthly small group supervision sessions, based on practitioners filming themselves leading parent baby groups and bringing selected moments to supervision: “Being able to see myself when I am being effective with my team was very encouraging”.
“Babies1st training has equipped me with tools I could apply in my work immediately.”
Empowering Professionals
A bespoke communications training, which is strength based, and highlights patterns of non-verbal and verbal communication. It has been shown to be successful with professionals in their workplace, or individuals interacting with partners and their children, toddlers and babies. This method is suitable to improve the practice of managers, teams, newly qualified professionals (such as teachers, nurses, social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists), family workers and peer supporters. It can be delivered in small groups or individually.
“I noticed that my sense of humour helps me to manage awkward situations and lightens the atmosphere”.
“The training helped me realise that I am respectful and empathetic with my clients, and that a strengths-based approach engages families who often just expect criticism from professionals”.
VIG in the antenatal period
A half-day workshop suitable for VIG practitioners, learners, or expecting parents, covering subjects such as: changes in pregnancy, the emotional work of expecting parents, families in context, thinking about the real baby, increasing empathy and mentalization, the impact of visual images.
“This training was an eye opener for me. I learned so much and it will definitely inform my practice”.
“I love the idea of connecting with parents before the birth and use visuals to support them to look at their bump and then talk about who they think is inside, and what kind of person baby will be”
Current Projects
Oxford University’s Clinical Psychology Doctoral Department has set up a pilot research on our Hampden Way Baby Bonding Project. They are looking at service development and delivery, challenges and opportunities, and client outcomes.
Consultations and supervision
We provide consultations, training and supervision for professionals. Our philosophy is to avoid jargon and be accessible to all, irrespective of prior academic learning.