• If you've got hands on grandparents make the most of them;
  
  
• Find your local parent and toddler group. Your health visitor should know where they meet or if this fails try your local library;
  
  
• Offer to baby sit for friends, hopefully they'll be happy to return the favour;
  
  
• Call round your local swimming pools and leisure centres. Many offer crèche facilities that even take babies;
  
  
• Try to organise a regular night out. If you go out with girl friends, make it a regular weekly or monthly date, so your partner/babysitter can plan ahead and always be there to cover. Also a regular date, booked in advance means that you are far more likely to get geared up to make it out of the door;
  
  
• If you have no grandparent support at hand, getting to know a good local childminder is helpful. Even if you don't use her every week, if you keep in touch he/she is far more likely to help you out if you are desperate.

If you have any more ideas that have worked for you or would like to share your own experiences please email: contributions@forparentsbyparents.co.uk