Baby and You Antenatal Programme
Congratulations on your pregnancy, and welcome to Parents Centre Aotearoa! This is an incredible time, as you embark on your parenting journey.
Antenatal Classes
Antenatal classes are held at Connect Blenheim. It is best to complete your course at least 4 weeks before your due date.
Class schedule:
- Saturday 7th Oct, 9am to 3.30pm, Mondays 9th & 16th Oct and Thur 19th Oct, 6:30 to 9pm.
- Saturday 27th Jan 2024, 9am to 3.30pm, Mondays 29th Jan, 12th Feb & 19th Feb, 6:30 to 9pm
- Mondays, 26th Feb to 8th Apr, 6:30 to 9.00pm
if you need an antenatal class before Christmas that isn’t already listed here, please email admin@parentscentre.org.nz
Parents Centre antenatal programmes are delivered by qualified educators who hold an annual practicing certificate. We ensure that the classes provide you with evidence-based information to help you make decisions. They are carried out in a manner that is interactive, engaging, and fun.
Topics include
- Brief overview of pregnancy topics
- Choices in childbirth
- Your labour journey
- Relaxation, management & coping strategies
- Support person/Partner’s role
- Feeding your baby
- Transition to parenthood
- Responsive parenting
- Practical parenting
Postnatal Classes
Our postnatal programme follows on from antenatal classes and offer sound tips and strategies as you begin your journey into parenthood. It is ideal for those with babies up to around 12 weeks old. This is a three-week course that runs one morning a week from 10-12pm for you and your baby to attend.
To see your baby smile, play and grow can be an extraordinary experience. You will have feelings of tenderness and closeness and a sense of awe at the miracles of the first milestones.
With a new baby, sometimes come uncertainties. Your tiny bundle may rule the entire household through their routines, sleep patterns and personalities. This can be very challenging for a new parent, so come and join us and ask your questions.
Topics include
- A brief reflection birth experience
- Feeding & Sleeping
- Communication and Settling pēpi
- Lifestyle changes and looking after yourself
- Physical development
- Social and emotional and brain development
- Age-appropriate toys and activities
The structure of this course is relaxed and informal with time for your questions and a cuppa. A great opportunity for new parents to get out of the house, meet other parents experiencing the same joys and challenges and foster their coffee group.