Free Crestwood Prenatal Classes

To register for any of Crestwood's free prenatal classes, you may use the online registration form or call 256.429.5251.

January - June 2013 Free Prenatal Class Schedule July - December 2013 Free Prenatal Class Schedule * Map included

• Prepared Childbirth Class
  This four week course provides expectant parents with knowledge of the stages of labor and birth, hospital procedures, the different types of anesthesia, relaxation skills and comfort measures. The information provided will enable moms and dads to make better, more informed decisions regarding the birth experience.  A tour of the Maternity Center is also included in the class. Please bring two pillows and a blanket with you to this class for the breathing and relaxation exercises.
  
  One day Saturday sessions are also available (note: a Saturday class is a condensed version of the four week sessions and offers an abbreviated version of breathing and relaxation. If you want more education on breathing and relaxation, please consider attending the 4 day course.)
   
• Breastfeeding Class
  This class will provide mom and dad with the information needed to make an informed decision regarding feeding their baby. The class provides mom and dad with the necessary skills to ensure success with breastfeeding. We explore topics like how to get started, first feedings, positioning, dealing with common breastfeeding difficulties and nutrition while breastfeeding. Mom’s support person encouraged to attend. Please bring a baby doll with you to this class.
   
• Sibling Class
  Designed for preschool and early elementary school-aged children, this class can help moms and dads prepare older siblings for the birth of a little brother or sister. Through activities and discussion, this class provides an introduction to the hospital environment where mom and their new sibling will stay. It also helps the older siblings understand some of the changes that will be occurring in the family. Parents can attend the classes with their children. Please bring a baby doll with you to this class.
    
• Daddy’s Baby Boot Camp
  This class is perfect for expectant Daddy’s who are having concerns about how they can best support their partner during the birth experience and care of the newborn.
  This class will ensure Daddy is confident in the basics of baby care to include: Diapering, burping, feeding baby, bathing, getting baby to sleep, tummy time, play time, cord care, taking baby’s temperature, keeping baby safe, and baby’s warning signs.

• Grandparenting Class 
  Grandparenting class helps grandparents prepare for their grandparenting roles by addressing changes in prenatal care, delivery, and childcare, and what grandparents need to know in order to keep their grandchildren safe and support the parents in their role. This class will bring grandparents up-to-date with the latest birthing and child care information and will send a message to the parents that you are serious about being a good grandparent.

• Newborn Care
  This class is designed for first time moms and dads and takes place over one evening. During the class, moms and dads will learn how to prepare for their baby, baby care basics, car seat safety and SIDS prevention. The class offers experience with skills such as diapering, bathing, cord care, dressing and feeding techniques. The class also includes cardiopulmonary resuscitation and choking for infants. Please bring a baby doll with you to this class.
   
• Mom's Support Group
  Join other new moms who are learning to face many of the challenges that new parents may encounter. We’ll explore feeding issues, sleeping patterns, developmental milestones, childproofing and teething. Babies are welcome! Mom’s Support Group meets weekly on Thursdays at 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the Crestwood Women’s Center Community Room.

Additional classes offered at Crestwood (not part of Crestwood's Free prenatal class offerings):

• Sweet Success for Gestational Diabetes This program is an outpatient-based, multidisciplinary education program that can improve pregnancy outcomes for mothers with diabetes and their babies. Through one-on-one consultation with registered nurses and dieticians, expected moms learn about diabetes management, meal planning, glucose meter use, and insulin administration. A physician referral is required. Covered by most insurance. To register for classes, call 256.429.5251. By Appointment only.

• Parenting Class - "Now What? Preparing for Your Parenting Journey" (Must register prior to class)
  Many parents feel unprepared to take care of their new baby once they're home from the hospital. This parenting class will prepare you for the early weeks, months and years of parenthood, covering the "The Eight Principles of Parenting" and providing practical strategies that will strengthen the bond with your baby and contribute to raising a happy and connected child. This is a one day, 3 hour class offered at Crestwood by Lysa Parker, MS, CFLE, CEIM, Co-Founder of Attachment Parenting International. The fee is $50.00 for the class and includes Lysa's book Attached at the Heart and other take-home materials. "Now What?" classes will be held in Crestwood's OB Classroom inside Crestwood Maternity Center and grandparents are welcome to come for free! A $25 deposit is required with registration prior to the class to reserve your spot. The remaining balance is due the day of the class (by check or credit card).
  
  To register for Parenting Class, which is not part of Crestwood's free prenatal class offerings, you may use the online registration form OR call Lysa Parker at 256-503-1454. 

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