Our Programs for Parents
The Center for the Childbearing Year offers a comprehensive selection of classes and cutting-edge resources designed to help you have the best possible birth experience and ease you through the early weeks of caring for your newborn baby. We provide an environment that encourages a sense of community with other expectant couples and new parents. Support groups, lending library, and ongoing opportunities for you to enhance your family’s health through education are available. Learn more about the values that inform our programs.
The People’s Food Coop is sponsoring presentations by Patty Brennan this fall.
Two free lectures, with time alloted for Q&A are offered. Both sessions will take place at the Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tea Room on S. Main St. in downtown Ann Arbor.
Choices in Childbirth
Tuesday, 7–8pm, November 4
This session will present the wide variety of choices faced by pregnant women and their partners regarding care providers, birth locations, and insurance concerns. What are the differences between hospitals and birth centers, between doctors and midwives, between certified nurse midwives and lay midwives? What does the evidence say about the safety of homebirth? What is the difference between community-based childbirth education and classes offered by your local hospital? Get your questions answered and make an informed choice.
A Playful Approach to Nutrition for the Childbearing Year
Tuesday, 7–8pm, November 18
This session will cover the nutritional needs of pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. We will focus on qualitative rather than quantitative information. No food pyramids, charts, or tables here. Just a non-dogmatic, common sense, and playful approach to optimizing your nutritional choices during this vital time. We will discuss common myths, basic needs, the connection between nutrition and complaints or complications of pregnancy, the role of vitamins and supplements, safe use of herbal teas, and supportive strategies. Come and be nourished with information and encouragement to optimize the health of mom and baby! Partners encouraged to attend as well.
To sign up:
Contact the People’s Food Coop, www.peoplesfood.coop (to ensure we have enough handouts on hand). For more information on Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tea Room, go to www.crazywisdom.net.
Childbirth Preparation
Childbirth Preparation — Everything You Need to Know
With Kate Stroud
“This was a wonderful class! I felt that it prepared me for the labor and delivery very well. I found myself consulting my notes frequently as my due date approached (and passed!). When I went into labor, I felt calm and confident, knowing what to expect.” — Class Participant
“I couldn’t have been more satisfied or content! My only disappointment is that it was not longer. Also, the atmosphere of the Center is perfect! Kate’s sense of humor was greatly appreciated and fun!” — Class Participant
2008 Schedule & Fees
7 Tuesdays, 7–9:15pm
- September 9–October 21
- November 4–December 16
Fee $235 per couple; discounts for multiple classes
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. Information is geared toward preventing complications during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum. Emphasis is placed on developing confidence in a woman’s natural capacity to give birth, comfort measures and labor support techniques, alternatives to drugs, cesarean prevention, and the baby’s needs. Birth videos, lending library, resources, referrals, and more are available.
Class Topics
Week 1
- cultivating a consumer approach to health care
- de-programming negative cultural images of birth
- herbal teas for pregnancy
- optimal nutrition for a healthy pregnancy
- anatomy and physiology of pregnancy
- relief for common discomforts
Week 2
- essential exercises and stretches
- exploring our fears
Week 3
- overview of the process of labor and birth
- the newborn baby and immediate post-birth care
Week 4
- medical interventions in birth: benefits, risks, and alternatives
Week 5
- comfort measures and labor support
- positioning and movement in labor
- massage and touch in labor
Week 6
- emotional needs of the birthing mother
- using your breath and vocalization
- conscious relaxation in labor
- creating a birth plan
Week 7
- postpartum recovery and adjustment
- benefits of breastfeeding
- importance of the social context for breastfeeding success
- baby blues and postpartum depression
- parenting and children’s resources
- visit from recent class graduates with their baby
“This was, by far, the best prep I could have had for pregnancy/delivery/postpartum!” — Class Participant
Childbirth Preparation — Focus on Labor & Birth — Condensed Series
With Kate Stroud
2008 Schedule & Fees
2 Saturdays, 1–4:30pm, October 4 & 11
Fee $120 per couple; discounts for multiple classes
The condensed series is designed for couples seeking a refresher class for a second (or more!) baby or couples planning a homebirth. Folks with busy schedules, or who are coming at the last minute and cannot accommodate a seven-week class, are welcome. However, the instructors would like you to know that key information on medical interventions in the birth process and informed consumerism will not be covered. Rather we’ll focus on the process of labor and birth, coping with pain, support techniques and comfort measures, and the postpartum recovery period. (The option of a short, private or small-group lesson to cover these topics will be offered to the group and, if there is interest, scheduled at mutual convenience.)
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.
The following classes can be taken prior to your baby’s birth or after the birth with the baby in tow:
- Breastfeeding Basics — Tools for Success
- Newborn Care 101
- Combining Work & Breastfeeding
- Infant CPR, First Aid, & Safety
- Vaccinations & Informed Consent.
The Infant Massage class and all of our support groups are designed to be taken with your baby.
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.
Our classes provide a community-based, consumer-oriented approach to childbirth education. By staying independent, we are not beholding to medical institutions and are best positioned to evolve our curriculum quickly to adapt to the ever-changing cultural context and meet the emerging needs of our customers.
- 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.
We will not attempt to put forth here the various method approaches of our competitors. They can best represent their own programs and we encourage you to contact them directly for information. Some may emphasize the teaching and practicing of breathing techniques for coping in labor, which we have found regularly lead to hyperventilation and are abandoned in labor by approximately 95 percent of women. Another emphasizes the role of the partner in “husband-coached” childbirth. We encourage partners, husband or otherwise, to find their own place in this process, understanding that some may want a very active role while others may feel overwhelmed by the prospect. Another method incorporates the production of artwork into each class as a means of psychological preparation. And still others are offered by the hospitals themselves and may promote the institution’s philosophy with an eye to encouraging patient compliance, rather than a consumer perspective. Clearly, there is no one approach that is right for everyone. What resonates with you?
We can promise that our classes incorporate up-to-date information, interactive teaching methods, and a comfortable, welcoming environment. Our expert instructors are not only experienced in adult education, but also active birth attendants.
Private or Semi-Private Childbirth Classes
With Patty Brennan
Email Patty to make arrangements (This email address is being protected from spam bots; you need Javascript enabled to view it.)
Fee is $100 per hour, 2-hour minimum
Private classes can be co-designed to meet your or your group’s 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. And 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.
Breastfeeding Classes & Support Groups
Breastfeeding Basics — Tools for Success
With Barbara Robertson, MA, IBCLC
2008 Schedule & Fees
2 Wednesdays, 6:30–8:45pm
- September 10 & 17
- November 5 & 12
- December 10 & 17
Saturday, 12:30–5pm, October 25
Fee $60 per couple; discounts for multiple classes
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
Combining Work & Breastfeeding
With Barbara Robertson, MA, IBCLC
2008 Schedule & Fees
- Wednesday, 10am–12:30pm, September 10
- Thursday, 6:30–9pm, November 20
Fee $30; discounts for multiple classes
At what point postpartum should a breastfeeding mother begin to plan for her return to work? With the help of a lactation consultant, design a personal plan to address your unique return-to-work situation and family needs. Our goal is that your re-entry to the workplace will be as stress free as possible, for both you and your baby. We will discuss strategies for introducing the bottle to your baby and managing schedules, types of breast pumps, the experience of pumping, safe storage of breast milk, and more. Nursing babies are welcome or the class can be taken prior to birth if desired.
Breastfeeding Cafe for Breastfeeding Mothers
2008 Schedule & Fees
Starting Friday, September 12, 10–11:30am, ongoing
Fee: No charge; pre-registration is not required; just come!
Come and meet other women who are breastfeeding their babies! This free drop-in group focuses on supporting breastfeeding mothers. We provide a space for mothers to come and be with their babies and meet other breastfeeding mothers. Have a cup of tea, relax, and chat with others about what’s on your mind! Support staff is available to answer any breastfeeding questions with accurate, up-to-date information. Moms and babies can come for as many weeks as they need.
Newborn Care 101
With Jamie Wazenkewitz
“The class opened my mind to things I hadn’t thought about or didn’t feel comfortable asking others.” — Class Participant
2008 Schedule & Fees
- Wednesday, 7–9:30pm, September 24
- Saturday, 1–3:30pm, October 18
Fee $40 per couple; discounts for multiple classes
As parents, we are all figuring it out as we go along. Trial and error will definitely be a learning strategy as you get to know your baby. In this class, we will try to limit the “error” part of “trial and error” by sharing practical insights and identifying supportive resources. How to hold a newborn — just how fragile are they? What are the sensory capacities of the newborn? How can parents best determine their baby’s needs and read their baby’s cues? Is all that stuff necessary? What equipment and supplies do you really need? What about diapering, bathing, and calming the baby? Just how sleep deprived will you be? Get your questions answered!
Five Ways to Hold a Newborn Baby
Infant Massage
With Hanna Kitchens
2008 Schedule & Fees
4 Thursdays, 6–7:15 pm, October 9–30
4 Mondays, 6–7:15pm, November 17–December 8
Additional classes may be added, based upon demand. Let us know if you need a day time or weekend class.
Fee $80, includes book and massage oil; discounts for multiple classes
Classes are designed for babies from six weeks to pre-crawling. Two caregivers are encouraged to attend — moms, dads, partners, grandparents, or other significant caregivers are welcome. Through the art of infant massage, you will gain a deeper understanding of your baby’s nonverbal cues, identify calming techniques that work, and enhance your parenting confidence. We will also address parenting topics, providing a venue for you to be in community with other new parents as you become more aware of your beliefs and concerns about parenting and developmental issues.
CPR & First Aid classes
NEW! Infant CPR, First Aid & Safety
With Janetlynne Erickson, RN, CCE
2008 Schedule & Fees
Wednesday, 6:30–9pm, July 30
Monday, 6:30–9pm
- September 15
- October 13
Thursday, 6:30–9pm, December 11
Fee $45 per person or $85 per couple; discounts for multiple classes
This training is designed for expectant/new parents, grandparents, babysitters/nannies, and other caregivers. We will provide up-to-date information on child passenger safety, accident prevention in the home, first aid topics, safe sleep issues, and SIDS prevention. Hands-on training in infant CPR and choking is emphasized. Enrollment is limited to 9 people to ensure that everyone has sufficient opportunity to practice hands-on skills.
*Please Note: This class does not provide Infant CPR credentialing, but does follow recommendations set forth by the American Heart Association. Participants will receive an AHA completion card at the end of training. If you prefer a more comprehensive training that includes credentialing, please see our Infant/Child/Adult CPR & First Aid class below.
NEW! Infant/Child/Adult CPR & First Aid
With Janetlynne Erickson, RN, CCE
2008 Schedule & Fees
Saturday, 9am–2:30pm
- September 13
- November 1
Fee $85 per person; $155 per couple (includes manual;* add $6 to the fee if you need us to ship the manual to you). Bring a bag lunch.
This class provides Infant/Child/Adult CPR credentialing through the American Heart Association and includes the AHA Heart Saver Pediatric First Aid training. It meets Michigan State guidelines for daycare providers and fulfills the DONA International postpartum doula certification requirement. This credential is recognized for two years post completion by the AHA. Enrollment is limited to 9 people to ensure that everyone has sufficient opportunity to practice hands-on skills.
*Please Note: You must have a copy of the American Heart Association’s Pediatric Heartsaver First Aid manual in your possession prior to taking this class. We recommend that you do a full review of the book prior to coming to class. At the very least, you must review the steps of CPR and do the review/test questions provided.
Additional Scheduling for CPR Classes
Additional sections of both courses may be added, depending upon demand. If the above dates do not work for you, please let us know. We can also bring this training to your work place. Email Patty for more information.
Homeopathy & Family Home Health Care
With Patty Brennan
2008 Schedule & Fees
Sunday, noon–4:30pm, October 26
Fee $75; partners are welcome to take this class at no extra charge; babies up to six months in age are welcome
Through application of the healing principle of “like cures like” and the transformation of natural substances into non-toxic, energetic or vibrational medicines, homeopathy effects a gentle — yet often powerful — cure of a variety of ailments. In this class we will explain the basic principles of this 200+ year-old system of medicine and provide guidance for getting started with an inexpensive home remedy kit. Emphasis will be placed on “taking the case” and using resources to choose a remedy. Remedies for common acute ailments and first aid crises will be covered — difficult teething, colic, earaches, bruises, sunburn, and more!
We Can Bring this Training to You!
Patty Brennan is willing to bring this training to you. Put together a group for me and I will come. We can negotiate the needs of your group, scheduling, and fees. Email Patty for information.
About the Instructor
Patty Brennan is the author of Guide to Homeopathic Remedies for the Birth Bag and Vaccine Choices, Homeopathic Alternatives, & Parental Rights. She is the mother of two children and has been using homeopathic remedies for home health care for over 23 years, as well as incorporating homeopathics into her clinical midwifery practice from 1988–1998. Patty has lectured at numerous national conferences for midwives, doctors, nurses, and other health professionals on homeopathy. She is passionate about the subject, having both witnessed and experienced numerous homeopathic “miracles.” She enjoys making this treatment modality more accessible to others interested in incorporating homeopathic remedies into their home medicine chests.
Vaccinations & Informed Choice
With Patty Brennan
2008 Schedule
Wednesday, 7–9:30pm, November 19
Free Lecture/Discussion/Q&A
In alignment with the Center’s overall philosophy of encouraging parents to become educated consumers of health care and make informed decisions during the childbearing year, we offer this session on the controversial and complex topic of vaccinations. Emphasis is placed on consideration of recommended childhood vaccinations rather than on vaccines for travel to foreign countries.
The benefits of vaccines are widely touted in the mainstream culture, while the risks and alternatives often go unconsidered. Even if you choose to be in full compliance with the government’s vaccination recommendations, there is much that you can do as an informed consumer to protect your children and minimize the potential adverse effects of vaccines. Discussion will be organized around the following themes:
- how vaccines work and how the immune system works
- vaccine safety and efficacy
- prevention of adverse vaccine reactions
- supporting the body’s immune system naturally
- parental rights and vaccine waivers (if you don’t know your rights, you may as well not have them!)
Alternative Therapies for the Childbearing Year
With Patty Brennan & Guest Instructors
2008 Schedule & Fees
5 Wednesdays, 7–9:30pm, October 1–29 (ERD 9/10)
Fee $170; $150 if paid in full and postmarked by the Early Registration Date (ERD) listed
11.0 DONA CEUs pending (add $15 to fee for CEU processing)
The nutrifying, tonifying, and healing properties of a range of alternative therapies will be presented, with emphasis on applications for pregnancy, birth, and the early postpartum period. Each modality will be presented by a practitioner expert. Participants will have the opportunity to interact directly with each therapy, practice using resources, and play a bit. We will be encouraging you to incorporate these modalities into your self-care and give practical suggestions for how to get started. The following modalities will be presented:
- Homeopathy, with Patty Brennan
- Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, with Amanda Smith
- Nutrition and the Weston Price Foundation, with Frances Farmer
- Herbs and Flower Essences, with Patty Brennan
- Acupressure, Moxibustion, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, with Frances Farmer
Our Instructors
Amanda Smith is a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) with New Moon Midwifery, a homebirth practice located at the Center. She has been assisting birthing women for the past ten years. Amanda has long been interested in the healing properties of herbs and incorporating essentials oils into midwifery. In her spare time, she grows herbs and vegetables. Amanda currently serves as President of the Michigan Midwives Association.
Frances Farmer owns a shiatsu practice in Ann Arbor and has been practicing for 18 years. She is an OHASHI Institute® Graduate & Instructor. Frances has travelled the world, studying acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine in China and Sri Lanka. She became a member of the Weston A. Price Foundation in 1999 and has been studying these nutritional principles ever since. She has been lecturing for the last three years on the basics of childhood nutrition and health.
Mothering Arts Support Group
With Barbara Robertson & Cia Gabriel
Mondays, 10-11:30am, ongoing (join any time; you can pre-register or just show up!)
We are taking a couple of weeks off and will begin again on September 8th.
Fee $60 for 8 weeks
Mothering Arts is our very popular, informal support group for new mothers and their babies up to six months of age. This group supports moms in making a positive adjustment to the joys and challenges of motherhood. Eight-week series of topics rotates consecutively so the group can be joined at any time. Topics include sleep issues, breastfeeding, baby-wearing, taking care of yourself, sex after baby comes, birth stories, infant massage, baby signs, and more. Get out and connect with other mothers in the community!