Best Childbirth Classes In New York
With so much new-baby information available, and so many resources at their finger tips, it's easy to overwhelm moms to be. Finding the right child birth class can also be confusing at a time when what you really need is calming, concise answers. The most comprehensive child birth education centers in the city offer something for everybody, from first-time parents to veterans who just need a refresher course. Start here and alleviate those worries at the best child birth classes in New York.
Stork and Cradle
171 Madison Ave., Ste. 1600
New York, NY 10016
(646) 334-3830
www.storkandcradle.com
Price: $300 per class
This class covers an array of topics related to the actual birthing experience, geared toward putting even the most anxious of expectant parents at ease. All classes are taught by Tamara Hawkins, a registered nurse and certified labor support specialist. The class emphasizes empowerment during the child birth process by encouraging participants to take control of their birthing experience. Pain management techniques and coping skills are presented and practiced as well. In addition, Hawkins offers information regarding medication management during labor for concerned families receiving mixed signals. She discusses communication and negotiating skills that expectant parents need to stay in control during the birthing process. Although Hawkins is also a certified Lamaze instructor, the class does not emphasize one birthing method over another. The goal, instead, is to prepare expectant parents by providing information and teaching techniques to ensure that regardless of where or how moms choose to give birth, they feel confident and prepared.
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Birth Day Presence
580 Broadway, Ste. 304
New York, NY 10012
182 8th Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11215
(917) 751-6579
www.birthdaypresence.com
Price: $350
The inviting environment of both Birth Day Presence studios would entice any expectant parent to participate in a class. Low couches piled with pillows and a wide open studio space sets the stage for its informative child birth classes. Although its instructors are certified in Lamaze, Birth Day's approach is a bit eclectic. Experienced doulas and mothers educated from a variety of birthing perspectives instruct each interactive classes. The goal of its classes is to instill confidence and calmness in expecting parents. Each class focuses on teaching a host of helpful coping skills and pain management techniques available. Classes are offered in six-week sessions or weekend intensives. Parents preferring a more intimate experience may arrange for private instruction in the comfort of their own home. Refresher classes are also offered for parents expecting again.
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Tribeca Parenting
46 Warren St.
New York, NY 10007
(646) 863-4500
www.tribecaparenting.com
Click here for all locations
Price: $350
Offering classes in six convenient locations, Tribeca Parenting understands the challenges today's parents face. Its classes are staffed by an impressive team of parenting professionals from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines. Its keeping an open mind class offers a comprehensive overview of the child birth process. Participants may choose a four weeknight series, a weekend intensive or two to three consecutive Sundays to attend this 12- to 15-hour class. Content covered goes beyond pain management techniques and includes a detailed presentation of what to expect emotionally and physiologically during the child birth process. In addition, medication options are discussed and explained. Unplanned and unexpected events are also covered, preparing expectant parents for induction, augmentation or Cesarean birth. Tribeca also offers a childbirth class for expectant parents who have chosen to go the route of an epidural — planning for an epidural is a 12-hour, weekend intensive class. The class offers an overview similar to the open mind class with less of an emphasis on natural pain management.
Dr. Jennifer Powell-Lunder is a freelance writer in New York. She is a clinical psychologist specializing in work with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. Her work can be found here
