Classes

We're working on deciding which classes to take. First and most important - childbirth. Everyone tells us to take the Birth Works class offered by Susan Messina in DC, and since everyone agrees, we're doing it. It's a natural childbirth class that covers these topics:

Introductions/Exploring feelings/Watching video of newborn baby crawling up mom's abdomen to breastfeed)
Discussing Birth Works philosophies/Watching video"Birth in Squatting Position"/Relaxation exercise
"Positions for Labor" video/Nutrition/Labor complications/Medical procedures
Safe birth visualization/pain/pros and cons of drugs/Alternative comfort measures/videos on pros and cons of epidural and on alternative pain relief techniques
Audiotape of a woman in labor/Exercise/Beliefs
Loss and healing/Planning for the unexpected
Labor and delivery/Watching video depicting Stages of labor and what to expect
Postpartum and Breastfeeding

It's typically an 8-week course, but that seemed like a huge time investment, so we are taking the weekend intensive course in March. The cost is $255.

In addition, we are thinking of taking the following classes:

Infant Safety & CPR for Parents
This course covers safety issues and the newly updated CPR techniques applicable to babies up to one year of age. $50 per couple.

Getting Started with Breastfeeding
This comprehensive class will help expectant moms get off to a good start with breastfeeding. Topics include: benefits to breastfeeding,latching on, positioning, and signs that baby is getting enough. Bring a pillow to class. $30 per couple.

Baby Care Basics
Learn how to care for your newborn during those challenging first weeks. Topics include bathing, diapering, cord care, circumcision care, taking a temperature and when to call the doctor. $35 per couple.


After all of these classes, maybe we'll be prepared to push this thing out and bring it home!