Children at Birth Class

This class is aimed at children whose parents want them present at the birth of a sibling.  Children will learn about:

•  Their role in the labor and birthing process
•  The basic anatomy and physiological process of labor and birth
•  The hard work, sounds and intensity of labor.
•  Tour of the Birthing room

 The class includes a birth video.  Parents and child's coach may take part in the individualized discussion.  The instructor presents material in language that children can understand.   

Sibling Preparation Class

This class prepares children for the arrival of a new brother or sister.  It includes:

•  How children can stay connected to mom while she is in the hospital
•  Tour of the Birthing Center
•  What do while at home waiting for mom and the new baby
• "Practice Time" with dolls for holding and diapering.
•  Age-appropriate video
•  Snack
•  Coloring book and Big Brother/Sister sticker.

Schedule: 

2013:
Fridays: 8-12 year olds, 6:00 - 7:00 pm, June 7, Aug 2, Sept 6, Oct 4, Nov 1, Dec 6

Saturdays: 3-4 year olds, 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., 5-8 year olds, 10:30 a.m - 11:30 a.m.  June 8, Aug 3, Sept 7, Oct 5, Nov 2, Dec 7

"Your Baby is Having a Baby!" 

Special Event for Grandparents and Parents-to-be

Join us for this free event for grandparents and expectant parents. Grandparents will learn how to maximize their new role as a grandparent, and how they can help to support the expectant parents during this wonderful time.

Suzanne Meserve, BSW, LCCE, Parent Education Instructor at Baystate, will describe the many new childbirth techniques available to new moms. Pediatrician John Kelley, MD, will discuss the changes in infant safety and parenting that have occurred over the last two decades. And Linda Cauley, RN, IBCLC, lactation consultant, will discuss the many benefits and options for breastfeeding mothers.

A question and answer session will follow. You’ll also receive a packet of valuable information and enjoy raffles, light refreshments, and have the opportunity to purchase gift certificates.

Grandparents' Class

New grandparents-to-be will:

• Learn what is new in childbirth and infant care practices
• Tour the Wesson Women and Infants' maternity unit
• Discuss their roles
• Receive literature designed just for them
• Learn what they can do to help new parents after birth.

Schedule: 

2013: June 21

The Happiest Baby

This class provides expectant or new parents with step-by-step techniques for helping a baby sleep longer and for calming a fussy baby. The class is taught by certified Happiest Baby instructors who present information on:

• The calming reflex
• The Missing 4th Trimester
• The 5 s's
• The cuddle cure

 Class materials include handouts & The Happiest Baby on the Block & Soothing Sounds DVD.

Schedule: 

2013: May 9, July 24, Sept 18, Nov 2

Babysitting Academy

Babysitting training program for young adults ages 11 1/2  to 16 & covers topics such as:

• Baby care
• First aid
• Fire safety
• Home security
• Accident prevention
• Child behavior
• CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation).
• Participants who attend both sessions receive a babysitter's handbook, safety booklet, and graduation certificate.

Schedule: 

2013- June 1 Baystate Education Center 9am-4pm

           June 15- Baystate Mary Lane 9am-4pm

Teen CPR (Ages 14-17)- American Heart Association Heartsaver AED CPR Course

Schedule: 

2013- TBA

Preparing Your Pet for Your New Baby