They say it takes a village to raise a child — and for single mum Annabelle Wilson, that has never felt more true. In 2017, just two months before the birth of her daughter Primrose, Annabelle’s husband and soulmate, Josh Chalmers, passed away after a battle with a brain tumour.
“Although we both knew it was coming, and we’d talked about his life and what he wanted for mine, I was still grief-stricken,” Annabelle recalls. “The thought of raising Primrose alone in circumstances I could never have imagined was overwhelming.”
Thankfully, Annabelle was not alone. Her family and best friend Dann stepped in to support her through those early days, bringing colour, company, and hope into a world that suddenly felt very dark.
“Dann was a game-changer,” Annabelle says. “She helped bring some normality to a situation that was anything but. And our local childcare centre played a huge role too. Primrose started there at just six months old, two days a week, which allowed me to return to work.”
Finding Her Village
Now working four days a week as an ambassador for Cure Brain Cancer, Annabelle says her support network — including her family, friends, and Guardian Lemon Tree Childcare — has been central to her parenting journey.
“As a parent, you hear people say it takes a village. As a single mum, that’s magnified. My village is my incredible family, friends, and Guardian Lemon Tree — all of whom have been with me every step of the way.”
Lemon Tree Centre Manager Lily Donaldson remembers the first day she met Annabelle and Primrose. “It’s important to remember that we’re not just caring for children, we’re supporting families. Childcare becomes an extension of the family, helping both children and parents thrive.”
How Childcare Has Helped Primrose Thrive
Annabelle shares five ways Guardian Lemon Tree has supported Primrose’s growth:
- Socialisation: Starting childcare at six months gave Primrose vital opportunities to interact with other children, develop friendships, and gain independence — especially important for an only child.
- Exploring the world: Childcare expanded Primrose’s world beyond her mum, helping her engage with new experiences and learn through play and craft activities Annabelle wouldn’t have time for at home.
- Learning life skills: Simple routines like sitting at the table, saying “please” and “thank you,” and taking turns help Primrose understand social norms in a safe, nurturing environment.
- Education through play: From learning numbers and letters to observing peers’ behaviours — such as starting toilet training — Primrose’s curiosity is constantly nurtured.
- Support for parents: The educators model positive routines, healthy habits, and learning strategies that Annabelle can replicate at home, helping her feel confident as a parent.
“Watching Primrose enjoy her days and seeing her growth is priceless,” Annabelle says. “As a single mum, it’s so important for her to learn that she can gain knowledge and joy from others — that mum isn’t the sole source of truth.”
Gratitude, Love, and Moving Forward
Annabelle’s gratitude extends to her late husband Josh, whose memory continues to inspire her.
“Josh wanted me to be happy, for Primrose to be happy, and for me to find love again — which I have. Without the support of my family, friends, and Guardian Lemon Tree, I couldn’t have made it to where I am today. Despite everything, I feel so lucky.”
Discover the Guardian Difference
For more information on Guardian Childcare & Education, visit: www.guardian.edu.au and book a tour to see how their supportive community can make a difference for your family.
