Life can be pretty overwhelming as a new parent; there is a lot to learn in a short period of time. Many parents have questions on everything from creating a safe environment and getting started with breastfeeding to bathing a newborn and making sure he/she stays healthy.

To answer those questions and more, the Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ) publishes a guide with everything you need to know about caring for your new baby until they turn 2.

From Tiny Tot to Toddler has been a reference guide for new and expectant parents for 40 years and is available in print and online. With information based on science and written with the collaboration of pediatricians, doctors, nurses, other health professionals and parents, the guide is updated every year to reflect the evolution of practices and scientific knowledge.

Topics include pregnancy, delivery, baby, feeding, health, and family. Parents and caregivers can also find resources for parental leave, financial assistance, adoption, Government of Canada programs and services, support groups and more.

Several changes have been made to the 2023 edition

After a two-year review, the health section has been completely updated. It now  includes advice to support parents when their child is sick or in need of care. There are various recommendations for creating a safe environment for children, as well as information on the transmission of infections. Information on COVID-19 has also been updated. In addition, the recommendations for various breastfeeding issues have been revised in light of the most recent guidelines.

Where to find a copy

More than 120,000 copies of the printed guide will be distributed to families expecting a baby or who are in the adoption process. The guide is given for free at doctors’ office, CLSCs, test centres, birthing centres, or where ultrasounds are given. Those adopting can obtain a copy at Centres jeunesse and international adoption agencies.

The 2023 edition of the guide can also be purchased for $22.95 in bookstores and on the Quebec government’s website or by calling 418-643-5150 or 1-800-463-2100.

The English and French versions are also available in full online. Visit inspq.qc.ca/en/tiny-tot