Who Are We
Patricia Aley
Patricia is a registered nurse who has worked in a variety of nursing fields including research, mental health, and as a lactation consultant. For the last 18 years she has focussed on well-child health.
Patricia has a Social Science degree (nursing major), a Diploma in Public Health and a Certificate in Nutrition. She is also the author of 'Settling the young baby: a practical guide', and has contributed to 'Little Treasures' and 'Littlies'.
Through her background and her own parenting experiences Patricia appreciates the many issues and concerns modern parents face, and believes supporting parents is vital.
Carol Drew
Welcome to Small Wonders!
I am Carol, and eveything I do is in the name of love. I am a trained Karitane nurse from 'way back when' which gives you an indication of my age!
I am also a trained counsellor specialising in grief, loss, bereavement, self-esteem, body -
image, eating disorders and post-natal depression
Having a child is certainly a loss of the former life you have known, and change can be scary. The realisation of having a little human being who is totally dependant on you can be a bit daunting.
I also encompass the 'Hold Your Hand' package, which is specifically designed for parents who would like me to come in and show them how to put into practice, the Small Wonders programme, after the initial assessment has beem completed by Patricia or Janine.
I follow you around and awaken that seed of confidence until it grows and blossoms.
Alternatively I can come into your home and do the programme for you, if you feel particularly vulnerable, or have Post Natal Depression. We have flexible rates for this service depending on the problem, number of children and the time involved.
I feel there are too many pressures put on parents (especially mums) these days and a dose of reality can be both refreshing and releasing.
Small Wonders is here to respond and empower you.
I have sense of humour which will tickle your funny bone and remind you that parenting can be fun, with all its challenges and that life is still for living, and at times you wont know whether to laugh or to cry and hopefully the former.
Janine Clayton
Hi, I'm Janine.
I am a registered nurse with a diploma in child health and an honours degree in community health care nursing. I emigrated to NZ from England with my family in January 2005.
After qualifying in 1984, I have worked predominantly in paediatrics spending many years working in one of the world's leading children's hospitals. I recently went into community practice where I worked as a Health Visitor for 5 years before making the decision to live in this beautiful country.
I have an adorable but challenging 4 year old and therefore have empathy and understanding of both the wonderful highs and horrific lows of parenting!
Since arriving in NZ I have been employed by Plunket and find that this is very similar to my job as a Health Visitor. I have many years of experience in working with the 0 - 5 age group and have facilitated many parenting programmes in England, specialising in problem solving with common issues such as sleeping, feeding and behavioural issues.
As a member of the Small Wonders team, I enjoy the success and satisfaction of helping parents to gain or regain, confidence, competence and control in their parenting experience.
