Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) and the SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Birthing Center are inviting new and expectant parents to the 2025 Baby’s Best Start Fair—a free community event offering valuable resources for families with young children.
The fair takes place Saturday, Aug. 9, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Carbondale Civic Center, with door prize drawings at 2:45 p.m.
From breastfeeding assistance and infant development resources to car seat safety and family support programs, the Baby’s Best Start Fair brings together nearly a dozen vendors and local experts. The event coincides with World Breastfeeding Month and aims to reduce the overwhelm many families face in the early stages of parenthood.
“Families are the first responders when something feels off with a baby, and they play a critical role in that child’s early development and well-being,” said SIH Perinatal Outreach and Lactation Coordinator Mary Jarvis. “This fair is a way to support them with tools, information and a caring network.”
Highlights include:
· Breastfeeding and lactation support
· Infant development guidance
· Car seat installation checks
· Medical and safety supplies
· WIC and other family resources
· Balloon artist, coloring stations and character visits
“Babies don’t come with instruction manuals, and many parents feel overwhelmed—that’s completely normal,” Jarvis added. “Our fair is a one-stop-shop to help answer questions and connect families to trusted resources across Southern Illinois.”
No registration is required. For more information, contact Mary Jarvis at mary.jarvis@sih.net or call 618.549.0721 ext. 65252.
