What Antenatal Classes Should I Attend?

Congratulations on your pregnancy!  With a new bub on the way, you might be considering antenatal classes to prepare for childbirth and parenthood. But with so many options available, what classes are right for you? Here’s a guide to help you navigate the exciting world of antenatal education.

Understanding Your Needs

The first step is to identify your individual needs and preferences.  Consider factors like:

  • The stage of your pregnancy: Are you in your first trimester seeking general information, or are you closer to your due date and want specific birthing techniques to practise?
  • Your birthing preferences: Are you planning a home birth, a natural hospital birth, or a Caesarean section? Different classes cater to various birthing philosophies.
  • Your learning style: Do you prefer interactive sessions, in-depth lectures, or online modules?

Exploring Your Options

Australia offers a wide range of excellent resources for antenatal education if you are needing evidence-based information. Here are some trustworthy organizations to explore:

  • Raising Children Network (https://raisingchildren.net.au/) – Provides government-funded information and resources on all aspects of pregnancy, birth, and early childhood.
  • The Australian Breastfeeding Association (https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/) – Offers antenatal classes specifically focused on successful breastfeeding techniques and support.
  • Tresillian (https://www.tresillian.org.au/) – Provides a range of classes, including workshops on newborn care, baby development, and establishing routines.
  • Karitane (https://karitane.com.au/) – Offers education programs that cover newborn care, and parenting strategies.
  • The Royal Women’s Hospital (https://www.thewomens.org.au/) – Many hospitals offer antenatal classes run by experienced midwives and childbirth educators.
  • Growing Healthy Kids (https://www.growinghealthykids.com.au/) – Provides NSW-specific resources on pregnancy, childbirth, and early childhood, including information on antenatal classes.
  • Emerging Minds (https://emergingminds.com.au/) – Focuses on children’s mental health and wellbeing. They offer resources and programs that can be helpful for parents preparing for the arrival of a newborn.
  • The Triple P – Positive Parenting Program (https://www.triplep-parenting.net.au/au/triple-p/) – Offers parenting education programs that can be beneficial for new parents, although these aren’t specifically antenatal classes.

Having A Baby Classes: Your Trusted Partner

At Having a Baby Classes, we understand that every pregnancy journey is unique. That’s why we offer a variety of classes designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Here’s a taste of what we offer:

  • Having a baby class – face to face: A comprehensive program covering childbirth education, newborn care, and early parenthood.
  • Birth Intensive: A concise session focusing on the stages of labour, pain management, and birthing positions online
  • Baby Intensive: Gain confidence in caring for your newborn with practical demonstrations on breastfeeding, bathing, nappy changing, and sleep & settling techniques.

The most important factor is choosing classes that make you feel comfortable and prepared. Don’t hesitate to contact the Carmel if you have any questions about the curriculum or teaching style.

Embrace the Journey

Equipping yourself with knowledge is one of the best ways to approach parenthood with confidence.  Having A Baby Classes is here to support you on this exciting journey. Visit our website at https://havingababyclasses.com.au/birthing-classes/ to explore our class options and find the perfect fit for you!