Classes in childbirth, breastfeeding, parenthood and more
To help you prepare for the arrival of your new baby, Parkview offers a variety of classes for you and your family. All classes are free and available to any parents planning to give birth at the Women’s & Children’s Hospital and Parkview Hospital-Randallia.
For more information, class times or registration, call (260) 672-6100.
Preparing for Childbirth
Preparation is the key to having a confident, personally satisfying birthing experience. To help you prepare for this life-changing event, Parkview offers a three-session prenatal education class. It’s designed to assist you and your partner in exploring the physical, emotional and social aspects of birth. Each session includes prenatal information, group activities to promote learning, and a demonstration of skills useful during labor and birth so you can better define your needs and wants. An intensive, one-day class is also available on some weekends.
To help prepare for childbirth, this class covers the following:
- Pain management
- Physical and emotional changes
- Process of labor and birth
- Relaxation and breathing techniques
Breastfeeeding Your Baby
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for the first 12 months of life. This one-on-one class is highly recommended if you are considering breastfeeding your baby. Partners are encouraged to attend. To help you prepare for breastfeeding, this class covers:
- Benefits of breastfeeding for you and your baby
- Correct positioning
- Pumping and storage of breast milk
- Common concerns and questions
Basic Parenting and Beyond
Unfortunately, babies do not come with instruction sheets, and the anxiety about caring for your newborn can be overwhelming. This class is designed to help you feel more confident by teaching you basic parenting skills and more. Partners are encouraged to attend this class, which covers topics such as:
- Infant care skills
- Calming a crying baby
- Protecting your child
- Choosing a care provider
- Understanding infant sleep patterns
- Breastfeeding skills and bottle-feeding
- Knowing car seat safety
You will also have an opportunity to learn practical (non-certified) CPR and choking for infants and children.
Multiples Class
Whether you are expecting twins, triplets or more, this class is for you. Learn what to expect during your delivery, and once you are at home. You will also receive a tour of our state-of-the art 31-newborn Intensive Care Unit, located in with the Parkview Women’s & Children’s Hospital.
Flash Back to Basics Class
Preparing for you new baby can be exciting and challenging. This refresher course is for parents who have participated in childbirth class, but are seeking the latest information on labor and delivery. Learn what to expect and review pain management options, breathing techniques and more.
Pet-friendly Class
Preparing you and your furry friend for the new arrival is essential. That’s why Parkview offers Pet-friendly — a class designed for families who are expecting a baby. Learn how to cope with and adjust to the big change. You will also learn helpful pet training and home preparation tips. This class is taught by a registered veterinarian technician and offered once each quarter. No pets allowed.
Grandparents Class
Grandparents will learn the latest information on swaddling and safe sleep practices, as well as car seat safety. Grandparents will also learn tips on how to support their children as they step into parenthood and receive hands-on training in infant CPR and relief from choking. There will be $20 fee to cover supply and book costs for anyone creating a Grandparents Brag Book.
Sibling Safari Class
This class shows expectant siblings what to anticipate with the arrival of the new baby and where mom will be. In addition the expectant sibling will enjoy fun activities. A unit tour is included.
Postpartum Pals
This new mothers group meets weekly. Mothers can weigh their babies and share personal tips and experiences. A lactation consultant facilitates the group.