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Tender Beginnings Childbirth and Parenting Classes

Overview

We're dedicated to helping you and your family get off to the best start. Our maternity experts support you through pregnancy and beyond with educational resources, childbirth and infant care classes, breastfeeding and more. Classes are offered online and in-person (when available).

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In-person Classes

Baby Care Class for Parents

A 2-hour class with essential learning for expectant parents including feeding, bathing, cord care, sleep patterns and proper car seat use.

To register, please call 888-357-2409 or register for the class online.

Childbirth Preparation

These classes offer first-time parents preparation for childbirth. Prospective parents should register as early as possible.

To register, please call 888-357-2409 or register for the class online.

Breastfeeding Class

A 2-hour class for expectant parents focusing on all aspects of lactation from delivery room to postpartum. Explore lactation issues such as establishing good milk supply, nutrition and pumping. Taught by an RN on our maternity staff who is credentialed as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Held bimonthly.

To register, please call 888-357-2409 or register for the class online.

CPR Friends & Family (Infant/Child)

This course covers infant/child CPR, plus obstructed airway. This CPR class is designed for lay rescuers only, and not for those required to attend a CPR course for the workplace for a credential. Suggested for parents, caregivers and pregnant individuals.

Register for the class online.

Pediatrician 101

Get essential information on choosing a pediatrician, the pediatrician’s role in your baby’s care, child development phases and more. A pediatrician and associate will be available to answer your questions. To register, please call 888-357-2409 or register for the class online. Free.

Postpartum Visit

Those who deliver at Greenwich Hospital may return 48-72 hours after discharge for a mother/baby assessment. The visit is with a registered nurse on our maternity staff who is credentialed as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Call 203-863-4226. Free.

Webinars

Breastfeeding Basics

Breastfeeding Basics is taught by International Board of Lactation Consultants and is for expectant and new parents. Learn the basics of lactation, including proper latch-on, infant feeding cues, positioning and how to establish a good milk supply. Enrollees are encouraged to bring a support person to class.

This class is currently being offered as a live webinar so you will be able to interact with the instructor. Attendees will need a high-speed web-connection as well as camera with microphone to participate interactively in the class.

Register online or call toll-free 1-888-700-6543. Fee for class is $50 per couple.

Building Your "Tool Kit" for Labor

In this webinar, you and your partner will learn several “tools” for labor, including positions, movements, relaxation, affirmations, visualization and breath work for labor. You and your partner will also practice hands-on techniques. Learn which supplies to pack and what is available at the hospital for you to use.

You’ll be moving around so be sure to wear comfortable clothes and have water nearby.

This is an ideal class for those who would like a refresher and for first time moms who have already taken the Childbirth Education in-person class or Understanding Birth e-Class and are looking for more in-depth strategies for comfort and support in labor.

This is class is currently being offered as a live webinar so you will be able to interact with the instructor. Attendees will need a high-speed web-connection as well as camera with microphone to participate interactively in the class. This webinar includes the Understanding Natural Childbirth Techniques eClass.

Register online or call toll-free 1-888-700-6543. Fee for class is $50 per couple.

Childbirth Education

Led by a certified childbirth professional, at this webinar you and your partner will learn the anatomy of labor and birth, comfort measures, types of birth including vaginal and Cesarean, the role of the support person, pain relief options and much more. You will receive the Companion Understanding Birth Web App which will enhance your learning experience by providing videos and reinforce the information you learned in class.

Maternity tour is not included in childbirth classes; please register for our live, online tour separately.

We recommend that Childbirth Education be taken two months prior to your due date. Our childbirth classes are recommended for first time parents, experienced parents, parents expecting multiples as well as parents preparing for VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean).

This is a live webinar so you will be able to interact with the instructor. Attendees will need a high-speed web-connection as well as camera with microphone to participate interactively in the class.

Register online or call toll-free 1-888-700-6543. Fee for class is $100 per couple.

Dogs & Storks

This class is taught by a Family Paws Parent Educator and is a must for new and expectant families with dogs. Dogs & Storks was created to provide families and professionals with the resource to successfully include the dog as the family grows. Topics covered include: getting to know your dog, obedience and training, changes in routine, managing kid and dog zones, preparing for baby, coming home and meeting baby, and ages and stages: what to look out for.

This is class is currently being offered as a live webinar so you will be able to interact with the instructor. Attendees will need a high-speed web-connection as well as camera with microphone to participate interactively in the class.

Register online or call toll-free 1-888-700-6543. Fee for class is $45 per couple.

Hypnobirthing and Mindset Basics Webinar

During this webinar series, pregnant individuals and their birth partners will learn skills and techniques to increase calm and comfort during pregnancy and birth. There is a one hour per day commitment to practice between interactive webinar sessions. Webinar includes the Understanding Birth eClass as part of the curriculum.

Register online or call toll-free 1-888-700-6543. Fee for class is $250 per couple.

Online Classes

Understanding Birth

In this class you and your partner will learn the anatomy of labor and birth, comfort measures, types of birth including vaginal and Cesarean; the role of the support person, pain relief options and much more. Our curriculum provides comprehensive childbirth education that prepares expectant parents to have healthier and more satisfying birth experiences. Engaging video, life-like 3D animation and personal birth stories give parents the knowledge and confidence they need to make informed decisions about labor and birth.

We recommend that Childbirth Education be taken two months prior to your due date. Our childbirth classes are recommended for first time parents, experienced parents, as well as parents preparing for VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). It takes 4 to 6 hours to complete and can be viewed on your PC, phone or tablet.

You will have 9 months access to this class once you log in. This online eClass meets all ADA requirements and is available in additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese and German. Please email [email protected] if you would like information on how to access this class in one of these languages.

Register Online. Fee for class is $100.

Understanding Breastfeeding

Our Understanding Breastfeeding curriculum helps improve a mother's success with breastfeeding. Through step-by-step instructions and 3D animation, moms learn how to achieve a deep latch, breastfeeding holds and positions, and how to maintain healthy milk production. This course takes 2-3 hours to compete and follows International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) recommendations and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines.

 You will have 9 months access to this class once you log in. This online eClass meets all ADA requirements and is available in additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese and German. Please email [email protected] if you would like information on how to access this class in one of these languages.

Register Online. Fee for the class is $50.

Understanding Cesarean Birth

This class teaches parents about medically-necessary cesarean birth in a way that's interactive, easy to understand and relatable.

Topics covered:

  • Types & Reasons for Cesareans
  • Family-Centered Cesarean Birth Options
  • Signs of Labor
  • Preparing for Surgery
  • Anesthesia & Surgical Procedure
  • Breastfeeding & Recovery

This class takes 2 to 3 hours to complete and can be viewed on your PC, phone or tablet.

You will have 9 months access to this class once you log in. This online eClass meets all ADA requirements and is available in additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese and German. Please email [email protected] if you would like information on how to access this class in one of these languages.

Register Online. Fee for the class is $50.

Understanding Fatherhood

This class is about the joys of fatherhood and the important role that dads have in their children’s lives. The class begins with pregnancy, helping you understand your feelings about having a baby and how you can be involved during pregnancy. Next, it includes packing for the hospital, labor and birth basics, how to be a supportive partner during labor and making the most of your postpartum hospital stay. You’ll also learn about breastfeeding basics and support, how to create a safe sleep environment, along with why babies cry, soothing techniques and bonding. It concludes with your relationship after the baby, importance of good communication, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and paternal postpartum depression as well as understanding developmental milestones and positive discipline.

You will have 9 months access to this class once you log in. This online eClass meets all ADA requirements and is available in additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese and German. Please email [email protected] if you would like information on how to access this class in one of these languages.

Register Online. Fee for the class is $40.

Understanding Grandparenting

This is a fun, self-guided class that covers evidence-based changes in birth, breastfeeding, baby care and infant safety. It also provides ways for new grandparents to offer support and assistance to their growing family. 

You will have 9 months access to this class once you log in. This online eClass meets all ADA requirements and is available in additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese and German. Please email [email protected] if you would like information on how to access this class in one of these languages.

Register online. Fee for the class is $50.

Understanding Infant & Child Safety

This Infant & Child Safety eClass provides life-saving education for parents and caregivers. Accidents are the leading cause of death in infants and children. This class provides current information about prevention from a variety of safety organizations. Content includes: car safety, safe baby care, safety products, home safety, poisons, and emergency preparedness including infant CPR and first aid.

You will have 9 months access to this class once you log in. This online eClass meets all ADA requirements and is available in additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese and German. Please email [email protected] if you would like information on how to access this class in one of these languages.

Register Online. Fee for the class is $40.

Understanding Natural Childbirth Techniques

This online class is designed to build on the information and skills learned in a standard childbirth preparation class. It is intended for those planning a birth with few to no medical interventions. It highlights the philosophy behind natural childbirth and provides a more in-depth practice of comfort measures for labor. Techniques including positioning, massage, breathing, and alternative therapies, such as acupressure, visualization, and mindfulness will be reviewed. Several inspiring birth stories will be shared, and participants will come away with a practice checklist.

You will have 9 months access to this class once you log in. This online eClass meets all ADA requirements and is available in additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese and German. Please email [email protected] if you would like information on how to access this class in one of these languages.

Register online. Fee for the class is $40.

Understanding Pregnancy

This class includes an overview of trimesters along with 3D animation of fetal development, first trimester screening, glucose tolerance test, Group B strep test, nutrition and guidelines for exercise during pregnancy. It also covers how to manage the discomforts of pregnancy, as well as general pregnancy warning signs and signs of preterm labor. Common pregnancy stressors, stress-relief tips, intimate partner violence, support, body image, relationship tips and partner emotions are also covered.

You will have 9 months access to this class once you log in. This online eClass meets all ADA requirements and is available in additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese and German. Please email [email protected] if you would like information on how to access this class in one of these languages.

Register Online. Fee for the class is $40.

Understanding Sibling Preparation

This sibling preparation class teaches parents how to support their child in becoming a big brother or sister, answer tough questions and reduce jealousy. To encourage the sibling-to-be, there are also fun lessons to do together, complete with kid-friendly video clips, coloring pages and other activities.

You will have 9 months access to this class once you log in. This online eClass meets all ADA requirements and is available in additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese and German. Please email [email protected] if you would like information on how to access this class in one of these languages.

Register Online. Fee for the class is $25.

Understanding Your Multiples

The content includes: Pregnancy, labor and delivery, breastfeeding, postpartum recovery and the first few weeks at home. Engaging videos, 3D animation and personal birth stories will help give parents the knowledge and confidence they need to make informed decisions about their labor and birth. The class takes 3-5 hours to complete and can be viewed on your PC, phone or tablet.

You will have 9 months access to this class once you log in. This online eClass meets all ADA requirements and is available in additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese and German. Please email [email protected] if you would like information on how to access this class in one of these languages.

Register Online. Fee for the class is $100.

Understanding Your Newborn

This eClass provides comprehensive, evidence-based education about baby care in the first six weeks and beyond. It features real-life stories and provides the latest guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and other trusted organizations, along with the importance of baby cues, early brain growth and bonding. Content includes: newborn traits, newborn behaviors, crying and comforting, feeding, diapering, bathing, newborn health and safety.

You will have nine months of access once you log in.

This online eClass meets all ADA requirements and is available in additional languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, French, Chinese, Japanese and German. Please email [email protected] if you would like access to this classes in one of these languages.

Register Online. Fee for the class is $50.

Yale School of Medicine

Yale New Haven Health is proud to be affiliated with the prestigious Yale University and its highly ranked Yale School of Medicine.