Classes

Family Birth Center

Specific dates, times and locations for classes can be found on our Eventbrite Calendar. Please register for childbirth classes by the beginning of your third trimester and at least one week before the class begins. Our classes are limited in size and often fill up. For questions contact Shama at childbirth@vailhealth.org.
 
These classes help prepare new and returning parents for childbirth, labor, delivery, breastfeeding, baby care and integration into the family.

Maternity & Baby Care Classes

Childbirth Class

Frequency: Every other month - 4 Saturdays

This comprehensive, four-week class helps couples prepare for the birth process and parenthood. Class topics include: nutrition, pregnancy exercises, anatomy, stages of labor, relaxation & breathing techniques, assisted deliveries, medication options, baby care, breastfeeding, the postpartum experience and a tour of the Family Birth Center.

Fast Track Childbirth

Frequesncy: Fast Track is offered every other month
 
The Fast Track Childbirth class replaces the traditional four-week class with two sessions. This class is meant to fit the busy schedules of some parents. The same labor and birth material that is covered in the Childbirth Class is consolidated into two three-hour sessions. Please register by the beginning of your third trimester. Our classes are limited in size and do fill up.
 

Natural Birth Seminar

This two-hour seminar is for expectant parents who are considering an un-medicated birth and should be taken as a supplement to the Childbirth Class. The class emphasizes coping with labor. Techniques such as massage, movement, rhythmic breathing, aromatherapy, visualizations and music are discussed. The seminar also reviews laboring positions and the second stage of pushing positions taught in the Childbirth Class.
 

Breastfeeding Class

This 1½-hour class is designed to help pregnant women learn the techniques and possible challenges of breastfeeding. Topics include the benefits of breastfeeding, positioning, latch-on, establishing your milk supply, how to know if baby is getting enough milk, pumping, returning to work and much more! It is best to take this class one month prior to your due date and after any childbirth classes.
 

Transitional Feeding

This one-time, 2-hour class is geared towards parents with an infant (s) from 5-6 months old preparing to transition from breast milk/formula only to solids. The class emphasizes when to introduce baby food and what to feed your baby, first foods and then progressing from purees to more solid food. It will also include what foods to avoid during the first year, food allergies, making your own baby food plus family and feeding strategies to make meal time FUN even into toddlerhood! 
 
 

"I Love My Sibling" Class

Involve your child in the arrival of his/her new brother or sister! This class is designed to prepare your child for the upcoming changes in your family. This one-hour session is filled with fun activities and discussions to help children feel good about becoming a big sister or brother. Children will have a chance to tour where their siblings will be born, meet the nurses, practice holding a doll and learn how they can help with a new baby.
 

Baby Care Class

This two-hour class is meant for expecting parents or parents who have just had their baby. Grandparents are also welcome to learn about changes in baby care in last several years. Focusing on infants less than one month old, class topics will include: general care, weight loss and gain, sleep patterns, skin care, umbilical cord care, circumcision care, bathing, finger nail care, baby's environment at home, and special winter and summer care. Parents will learn about babies' reflexes and senses and how to keep their babies safe (SIDS, back to sleep, shaken baby syndrome, car seat safety, warning signs and reportable symptoms). We encourage parents to bring their newborn with them (if not still pregnant).

Baby and Me

Baby and Me
Parents are encouraged to meet other parents, develop friendships, talk about their babies' milestones, discuss breastfeeding or other concerns and celebrate triumphs at the weekly Baby and Me in Edwards. No registration is required.
 
Baby & Me is on Facebook!