Newborn Yuna and mom: “Ayase likely couldn’t have had a natural birth without the great birthing class we took at the Center. My wife is enjoying the breastfeeding resources that the center offers as well … thanks for everything!”–Paul Saxman

Classes for Expectant Parents

• A comprehensive selection of online classes are under development!
• Childbirth Preparation–Everything You Need to Know
• Childbirth Preparation–Condensed Series
• One-Day Holistic Birth Preparation Retreat
• Navigating the Medical Setting — What Parents Need to Know about Epidurals, Cesareans, Birth Plans, and Informed Consent (ONLINE program)
• Private Childbirth Classes/Consultations
• Breastfeeding Basics–Tools for Success
• Caring for Your Newborn (also available as an online program)

Sign up online for more than one program and you will receive an automatic 5% discount off your total investment.

MotherBaby Support Groups

• Mothering Arts
• La Leche League Monthly Meetings
• The Breastfeeding Cafe
• Breastfeeding Multiples MotherBaby Group
• Working & Breastfeeding MotherBaby Group

FREE Drop-In Groups — no registration required!

Lending Library & Resources

• Lending library of books and DVDs
• Community resources, brochures, and business cards of folks providing services to childbearing families; bulletin board for events postings
• Online Directory and Links to service providers and resources
• Online resources that promote informed decision making, including how to hire a doula or midwife

Products for Sale

• Pregnancy Tea organic herbs
• Postpartum Herbal Baths
• Vaccines & Informed Choice, by Patty Brennan (2009)
• Whole Family Recipes: For the Childbearing Year & Beyond, by Patty Brennan (cookbook, 2007)
• Guide to Homeopathic Remedies for the Birth Bag, by Patty Brennan (4th Edition, 2005)
• Nursing bras, Medela breast pumps and products, and more are available through the adjacent Breastfeeding Center of Ann Arbor

Other Businesses on Site

• The Breastfeeding Center of Ann Arbor
• New Moon Midwifery
• Michelle Massey Barnes Photography

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Registration is limited and will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. To reserve your spot, send a minimum payment of $100 (or the full fee if tuition is less than $100). Balances are due on the first day of class. A limited number of more flexible payment plans or work/study opportunities may be available upon request, but must be approved in advance. Email Patty to inquire about this possibility. Once we receive payment, we will mail you a letter of confirmation providing directions and other information. Last-minute registrations may be accepted, space permitting.

Discount for Multiple Classes

Sign up online for two or more classes for expectant parents at the same time and you will receive an automatic 5% off of your total. You must register and pay in full for classes at the same time in order to receive the discount.

Flex Accounts, Medical Savings Accounts & Insurance

Flex accounts and various other types of medical savings and reimbursement accounts may cover the cost of childbirth preparation, breastfeeding, and newborn care classes. You may want to check with your plan provider prior to registering to see if you qualify. Some plans allow direct debit access, while others will require you to submit your receipt for reimbursement. We are not set up to accept any insurance, including Medicaid.

At what point in your pregnancy should you register for classes?

Plan ahead! You are encouraged to take Childbirth Preparation classes beginning anytime after your fourth to fifth month of pregnancy. Since the full series is seven weeks in length, you don’t want to back it up too close to your due date or you will run the risk of missing the last class or two if your baby comes early. As class sizes are limited, parents are encouraged not to wait until the last minute to register, though we will accommodate you if we possibly can.

Coming Soon: A package of Early Pregnancy multi-media online programs!

Make-Up Policy

We are in the process of developing a comprehensive series of Online Childbirth Preparation programs. A number of the modules are complete. We expect to roll out the entire series in the spring and will allow access to specific modules for makeup purposes. Due to limited space, we are not able to accommodate the many requests we receive to allow people to make up missed classes by joining another class series. If you have to miss a class, it is fine for you or your partner to come alone or bring a different support person with you to class.

Refund Policy

A full refund, minus a $25 processing fee, plus 3% on the total for credit card payments, will be provided upon request up until one week before a class begins. After that time, refunds will not be issued, though students may transfer their registration to another class or support group. Once we are within 24 hours of a class beginning, no refunds or credit transfers will be permitted.

Register Online Now

You can use our secure online payment system to register and pay in full for classes with a credit or debit card.

Payment by Check

When sending in payment, please include the following information:

• your name and name of one person who will be attending the classes with you
• address, phone number, and email address
• due date
• the class names and dates in which you are enrolling

Please make checks payable to:

Center for the Childbearing Year

Mail to:

Patty Brennan
Center for the Childbearing Year
722 Brooks St.
Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Payment by Credit Card

We accept VISA, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express over the phone as well as online. Call 734-663-1523.

Questions?

Call (734) 663-1523 or Email Patty.

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Pre-tax flex accounts and various other types of medical savings and reimbursement accounts may cover the cost of childbirth preparation, breastfeeding, and newborn care classes. You may want to check with your plan provider prior to registering if you have direct debit access to your funds. Or save your receipt and submit it for reimbursement.

Multiple Class Discount

5% will be automatically deducted from your total when registering online for more than one class at the same time (includes our online programs!).

 2012 Schedule & Fees

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Refund Policy

A full refund, minus a $25 processing fee, plus 3% on the total for credit card payments, will be provided upon request up until one week before a class begins. After that time, refunds will not be issued, though students may transfer their registration to another class or support group. Once we are within 24 hours of a class beginning, no refunds or credit transfers will be permitted.

Winters Storms & Canceling Classes

For our classes for parents, we rarely cancel. If there are a few inches of snow on the ground or a couple of inches predicted on the evening/day of class, we will still go ahead with the class. However, if it appears that heavy snow/blizzard conditions will coincide with the start and/or end times of the class, then we will cancel. Typically, I wait until mid-afternoon to make the call. You will be notified by both phone and email in case of cancellation so be sure to check your messages. A make-up date will be announced for all canceled classes.

Discount for Multiple Classes

Sign up online for two or more classes for expectant parents at the same time and you will receive an automatic 5% off of your total. Discount applies only when you register and pay in full for classes at the same time.

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Plan ahead! You are encouraged to take Childbirth Preparation classes beginning anytime after your fourth to fifth month of pregnancy. Since the full series is seven weeks in length, you don’t want to back it up too close to your due date or you will run the risk of missing the last class or two if your baby comes early. Class sizes are limited. Don’t wait till the last minute!

Coming Soon: A package of Early Pregnancy multi-media online programs!

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How do our classes compare to other “method approaches” to childbirth education?

The Center has chosen not to affiliate with any brand name methods of childbirth education. Rather, we have developed our own eclectic approach, drawing the best from what various methods have to offer. The curriculum has evolved over the years, with feedback from parent course evaluations playing a major role in the process. We care what you think! Experienced doulas and midwives have developed this curriculum based upon our experiences with laboring mothers. We share what works.

• We believe that pregnancy and birth are normal life events.
• We promote informed, evidence-based decision making on a wide range of issues (natural versus medicated birth, place of birth, choice of birth attendant, circumcision, vaccinations, and so on).
• We support the goal of a natural, unmedicated birth while acknowledging that there is not one “right” way to have a baby.
• We intend that our classes help the expectant mother and her partner feel more confident about the upcoming birth, acknowledging your fears while arming you with a selection of coping strategies.
• We hope to encourage you to see yourselves as the center of this experience—something you are actively doing (”giving birth”), rather than something that is happening to you (”being delivered”).
• We encourage breastfeeding.

Our classes incorporate up-to-date information, interactive teaching methods, and a comfortable, welcoming environment. Our expert instructors include active birth attendants and a lactation consultant.

Hospital-Based vs. Community-Based Childbirth Preparation

“This is how we do it … ” rather than “Here are your choices …

Community-based childbirth education is consumer-oriented. We do not teach you to be a “good” patient; we teach you to be an informed consumer! Hospital-based childbirth preparation programs (as a general rule) tend to promote the institution’s policies and protocols, with an eye to encouraging patient compliance rather than informed decision making. Informed consumers know their full range of choices and understand the benefits, drawbacks, and alternatives related to each choice.

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“Whitman Glen Newland was born Saturday, March 12th at 8:46 p.m. at Henry Ford Hospital in West Bloomfield, MI. He clocked in a 6 pounds, 1 ounce and 20 inches, sporting a full head of black hair. Janae powered through 17 hours of drug-free labor and Whitman scored 9/9 on his Apgar (we’re so proud of our little achiever). Thanks again Patty and Alicia, we had the confidence to do this as a team and our birth plan really worked out!” — LeRoy and Janae Newland

2012 Schedule & Fees

• 7 Wednesdays, 6:30–8:45pm, June 6–July 18
• 7 Wednesdays, 6:30–8:45pm, September 12–October 24
• 7 Tuesdays, 6:30–8:45pm, October 30–December 11

Fee $240 per couple; discount for multiple classes

REGISTER FOR THIS CLASS

Overview

Birth is normal and you can do it! This series provides a community of expectant parents who come together to learn about childbirth and explore related topics in preparation for giving birth. Emphasis is placed on developing confidence in a woman’s natural capacity to give birth, comfort measures and labor support techniques, how partners can help, alternatives to drugs, and cesarean prevention. Birth videos, lending library, resources, referrals, and more are available.

Don’t put yourself in a box with Hypnobirthing, Lamaze, or other brands! We have gleaned what works best from all of the “method” approaches!

Topics include:

• re-programming negative cultural images of birth
• herbal teas for pregnancy
• optimal nutrition for a healthy pregnancy
• basic anatomy and physiology of pregnancy
• early labor–what to expect, what to do
• exploring our fears
• active labor–what to expect, how to cooperate with the process
• moving through labor–finding your rhythm
• pain coping practice–conscious relaxation and breath awareness
• emotional support and creating a safe environment
• pushing the baby out–positioning for 2nd stage
• comfort measures and labor support–the partner’s role
• pain coping practice–blending relaxation and non-focused awareness
• medical interventions in birth–benefits, risks, and alternatives
• creating a birth plan
• the first few hours after birth–what to expect
• bringing baby home
• postpartum recovery and adjustment
• baby blues and postpartum depression

Click here for Frequently Asked Questions about the Center’s childbirth preparation programs.

Read about the Mission Statement and Core Values that form the foundation of the Center’s curricula.

Read what our customers have to say:

“I feel so prepared for my birth. I didn’t expect the class to be so enjoyable. I thought it would just be breathing and positions only (television birthing classes image). I was sad to see the last day!!” — Sharita Fouche, Ypsilanti, MI

“Came into the course not knowing what to expect. Left the course confident in our choices, excited about our journey, and with new friends to share it with…. will definitely recommend this course to others.” — Steven Clausnitzer, Ypsilanti, MI

“I left this series of classes feeling incredibly informed, empowered, and confident about our future birth experience. I highly recommend these classes to all first time expectant parents!” — Kristin Lord, Howell, MI

“My experience in the class mirrored my pregnancy–full of different emotions–primarily joy and fear, but gradually feeling reassured and increasingly confident by the end.” — Emily Pingel, Ann Arbor, MI

“Professional and friendly, warm atmosphere … balanced loads of data with great, useful anecdotes. Huge help.” — Scott Sanders, Ann Arbor, MI

“The class made me feel very prepared but it also provided a safe place every week so IF I had a question or concern, I knew I could ask. I also loved being able to check out materials. What a wonderful experience!” — Yvonne Mato, Howell, MI

“We loved our class. It was helpful, informational, and fun; we actually looked forward to going.” — Daniel Hamilton, Ann Arbor, MI

“Alicia did a great job. She is very knowledgeable, enthusastic and kept the class interesting and applicable. I feel much more aware, as a partner. of what to expect.” — Mike Taylor, Ann Arbor, MI”

“By the end of the classes, I fel a lot calmer and more prepared for my baby’s birth. It was a great thing to do with my partner.” — Stella Resko, Ann Arbor, MI

Moms and babies reunite at a couple of months and at one year

Stacy & Tobin, Leslie & Reece, Janea & Whitman, Theresa & Ava, Andrea & Izzy

Stacy & Tobin, Andrea & Izzy, Leslie & Reece, Theresa & Ava, Mandy & Nelson

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“I just wanted to thank you so much for the Childbirth Preparation Condensed Series. This was my third childbirth and FIRST time taking any preparation class. I procrastinated with the first two, and then never thought it would make that big of a difference in the end, but boy did it! My first baby was induced due to gestational diabetes and the epidural failed. I declined the epidural with my second since I had a bad experience with my first, and overall had a great birth, but felt so panicked and unprepared throughout the labor. That all changed with this most recent birth, thanks in full to the class we took at the Center. I actually stayed calm and collected throughout all of my active labor. The same contractions that made me cry and panic with my first two labors, I closed my eyes and breathed through with my third. I made use of support positions even though I was laboring at 1am in Mott’s waiting areas . . . I will recommend the Center always. Here is a photo of me and Teddy immediately following my midwife-assisted birth at U of M (the midwives there were *AMAZING*) . . . 100% drug free, no repairs needed, and I left 11 hours after delivery!” — Anne Bruienne, Ann Arbor, MI

2012 Schedule & Fees

• 2 Saturdays, 9:30am–1pm, June 2 & 9
• 2 Saturdays, 9:30am–1pm, September 8 & 15
• 2 Saturdays, 1–4:30pm, December 1 & 8

Fee $175 per couple; discount for multiple classes

REGISTER NOW

Overview

The condensed series is designed to accommodate the schedules of busy couples who simply can’t make it to a full seven-week series or otherwise complete classes in time for the birth. This class is also appropriate for couples seeking a refresher class for a second (or more!) baby or couples planning a homebirth. If you are a first-time parent taking this class as your sole means of preparation, please be aware that key information on medical interventions in the birth process and informed consumerism will not be covered. However, an online class (Navigating the Medical Setting) is available for parents seeking a more complete preparation that includes medical interventions and birth plans.

See also our new one-day holistic birth preparation retreat, Giving Birth–Relaxation, Rhythm, Touch & Breath Awareness, which can be taken in place of the Condensed Series if that works out better for your schedule (you do not need both).

Emphasis is placed on the process of labor and birth, coping with pain, support techniques and comfort measures, and a brief overview of what to expect in the early postpartum recovery period. Please understand that we are not able to cover all the topics in 7 hours that we normally cover over 15.75 hours in a 7-week series.

Here’s what our customers have to say about their experience in this class:

“This class gave me confidence that I didn’t think was possible.” — Samantha Schmidtke, Brighton, MI

“Coming into the condensed version of the childbirth preparation course, I was a little intimidated. The instructor put all of my fears to rest. I found the days we were in class to be relaxing, fun, and informative!” — Justin Schmidtke, Brighton, MI

“The class was full of useful information. I feel much more prepared for this process. The instructor was very knowledgeable and warm — great experience.” — Rayna Gill, Ann Arbor, MI

“My husband and I were thrilled to find a childbirth class that was not your run-of-the-mill, generic kind of class. We learned all the things that we needed to know to prepare for a pain-free, natural birth experience. It was a very educational and fun class. We would highly recommend this class for all parents, whether it be their first birth or not!” — Nicole Harris, Ann Arbor, MI

“As a partner, I came away feeling more confident as well as accessing a more open, loving feeling.” — David Gill, Ann Arbor

Through humor and honesty, the instructor brought labor and birth alive, making the upcoming experience palpable, something to anticipate with more awareness, presence, and freedom.” — Kate Daum-Bost, Ann Arbor, MI

It was a real pleasure taking the class. I am preparing for my second child and the class had some information and points that were new, even to me. Great class for a refresher or 2nd time mamas.” — Lyn Slayton, South Lyon, MI

“This is a great class to take if you don’t have time for a weekly class. A lot of excellent information is given in a short amount of time. This class gave me confidence in being able to have a natural birth.” — Jesika McAteer, Livonia, MI

“I came into the class unsure of what to really expect. Many programs outline the course and then don’t follow the outline. Alicia was very structured in her delivery of the content and at the same time warm and open and welcoming to our emotions and questions. This was WAY better than I expected. Thank you!” — Brein Harpster, Dexter, MI

“This was our second class after a six-week program three years ago. This format was a great refresher!” — Trevor Anulewicz, Novi, MI

We will cover all the basics in this hands-on, interactive, nurturing, and fun childbirth preparation class, designed specifically for those of you with overly-full schedules. Spend a day together, as a couple, preparing for your Big Day. We will cover the following topics:

• The process itself—review of the basics
• Comforting touch in labor
• Movement and positioning for labor and birth
• Breath awareness and relaxation techniques
• Overcoming Fear (the Monster in the Room)
• Step-by-Step Support Guide—Just for Partners
• Drug-Free Pain-Management Tool Kit
• Enjoying Your “BabyMoon”—Postpartum Recovery Tips

2012 Schedule & Fees

• Saturday, 10am–5pm, July 21
• Saturday, 10am–5pm, October 15
  

Fee $200 per couple, includes course book, a delicious lunch, and nutritious snacks throughout the day (vegetarian option available); discount for multiple classes

REGISTER FOR THIS CLASS

NOTE: Couples planning a hospital birth may want to consider taking our Navigating the Medical Setting ONLINE CLASS as a compliment to this program. Make sure your entire support team are on the same page!

With Patty Brennan

• Increase your odds of a Healthy Baby
• How to plan for a Birth without Trauma
• How to Avoid Unnecessary Cesareans
• How to minimize the downside of medical interventions

Here we cover key information on medical interventions in the birth process for both mom and baby. Emphasis is placed on informed decision making and providing evidence-based information rather than preaching the “right” way to have a baby. The framework for discussion will be benefits, risks, and alternatives to each medical intervention. We will provide a sample birth plan template, discuss the limitations of birth plans, and teach you how to be your own best advocate.

This class is designed to accompany our Condensed Series of Childbirth Preparation classes and is also the perfect compliment to our One-Day Holistic Birth Preparation Retreat, Giving Birth: Relaxation, Rhythm, Touch & Breath Awareness. We will cover key information on medical interventions in the birth process, informed consent, and creation of a Birth Plan not covered in the other two classes. For those of you who prefer to have the more comprehensive approach included in our full seven-week series but can’t find the time to take the longer series, we have created this Online Program for you. (If you have registered for the full seven-week series, you do not need this class.)

~ 3 hours of material (on PowerPoint viewer using a free download if you do not already have PowerPoint, with audio, and PDF files; will work on MACs too; this program does not have to be completed in one session; start and stop as many times as you want)

Fee $40; discount for multiple classes

PURCHASE THIS PROGRAM

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Email Patty with questions or to make arrangements.
Fee is $135 per hour, 2-hour minimum

Private classes and consultations can be co-designed to meet your special needs. They are appropriate for couples who have already experienced childbirth and are seeking a refresher class, but may not need (or have time for) an entire series of birthing classes. A couple whose past birth experience was particularly difficult or in any way less than optimal, can often benefit from one or two private sessions aimed at troubleshooting specific concerns.

Private lessons are also helpful for those whose schedules do not permit them to attend a regular series of classes. Information contained in the entire standard series can typically be covered in three private sessions, or you can pick and choose among the topics. Scheduling is at our mutual convenience.

I specialize in preventive strategies, holistic solutions, and the promotion of consumer choice, drawing on 28 years of experience as a childbirth educator, doula, doula trainer, and retired homebirth midwife.

Thank you so much for all your advice and reassurances about delivering a big baby. I was able to apply so much of your advice and thought you’d be very happy to know how helpful your suggestions were. Toby was born at forty weeks, two days and weighed 9 lbs. 6 oz. Labor was fast. Three things you told us were particularly helpful: 1) once I knew the baby was coming (and could feel the burning) I let everyone know (I was on my hands and knees at that point); 2) to slow down the pushing, I did shallow breathing and delivered positioned on my side in the bed; and (3) there was no coached pushing; I let my body do all the work and he came out in two contractions. Very little tearing this time around, despite his big size, and recovery has been far easier. It really helped to have a team of three terrific labor coaches, and to have a medical staff who was supportive of our wishes. I really appreciate your help and have been recommending the Center to all the future moms and dads in the area I know.” — Anne-Lise Halvorsen, Detroit, MI

You met with my husband and I for a personal second childbirth preparation session. We had a truly amazing birth experience–no medications, no IV, and I just listened to my body and was able to be in the moment during pushing. Specifically, I did not bear down for counts of ten and it was incredible … I had no tearing at all (after previously having had an episiotomy)! I am someone who does a lot better with knowledge and preparation. Our session gave me both. It really helped. Thank you for all the work you do. You really helped our family. — Sara, Ann Arbor, MI

“I had no idea how much you could learn about breastfeeding — nor how much misinformation I had absorbed and accepted. I now have no doubt that I can successfully breastfeed as long as my baby needs. And if I run into issues, I know exactly where to go.” — Amity Thompson, Saline, MI

“As a husband, I found the class tremendously helpful. I feel equipped to help my wife and baby have a healthy breastfeeding relationship.” — Daniel Hamilton, Ann Arbor, MI

2012 Schedule & Fees

• Saturday, 12:30–5pm, May 26
• 2 Tuesdays, 6:30–8:45pm, July 10 & 17
• Saturday, 12:30–5pm, August 4
• 2 Tuesdays, 6:30–8:45pm, September 18 & 25
• Saturday, 12:30–5pm, November 10
• 2 Wednesdays, 6:30–8:45pm, December 5 & 12

Fee $65 per couple; discounts for multiple classes

REGISTER FOR THIS CLASS

 Overview

The breastfeeding relationship combines instinct and learned skills. This class focuses on the first critical weeks of your baby’s life and provides basic information and resources to prepare the mother-to-be for a satisfying breastfeeding experience. Since family support is a key factor in a positive breastfeeding experience, partners are also encouraged to attend.

Topics

• getting started
• latching and positioning the baby
• overcoming common obstacles such as engorgement
• learning your baby’s hunger cues
• developing realistic expectations around breastfeeding
• when and where to seek help

Read what our customers have to say:

“This class was wonderful. Barbara made the class enjoyable and gave me confidence in my ability to breastfeed.” — Candice Roth, Ann Arbor, MI

“The class was not just informative, but also really built confidence in my ability to successfully breastfeed.” — Andrea DiMuzio, Ypsilanti, MI

“This class was amazingly packed full of helpful, useful information. I didn’t know that I didn’t know a lot about breastfeeding. But now I definitely feel confident about being able to breastfeed.” — Anne Capling, Ann Arbor, MI

“Great Job! Good combination of discussion, videos, and demonstrations. I feel much more confident now.” — David Marris, Ypsilanti, MI

“Thanks for all the info on pumping and returning to work. Also, thanks for the positive attitude!” — Emily Mohr, Ann Arbor, MI

“I wish I’d taken this class before I had my first baby! And I love the discussion about Attachment Parenting! Thanks so much, Barbara.” — Erin Barnes, Livonia, MI

“This class exceeded my expectations! I learned so much useful information and feel much more confident about my ability to breastfeed. I also feel like I now know where to go for support and additional information.”– Paige Morrison, Ann Arbor, MI

“What a wonderful community resource! As an older mom of five grown children, I had to self-educate, read and ask my midwife for help. It would have been incredible to have this info in one spot and a go-to person!” — Kristin Dishaw, Ypsilanti, MI

“I was wondering what this class had for me to learn, but as I learned, it was Great. I am very glad I came to this class. Keep up the good work!” — Shane Winslow, Superior Twp, MI

Barbara is very knowledgeable and teaches the class in an engaging way. You can tell she is very enthusiastic about the material and helping new parents.” — Mike Taylor, Ann Arbor, MI

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