Maternity Classes
We offer a number of classes to help women and their partners know what to expect at delivery and how to prepare to care for their newborn. We encourage you to participate in as many classes as you'd like as you prepare to welcome your baby.
Important Notes
- Preregistration is required for all classes.
- Birthing partners are encouraged to attend, but don't need to register.
- All in person classes are held at The Copeland Health Education Pavilion, Suite 101 (on the French Hospital Medical Center campus).
Call (805) 542-6659 or email [email protected] with any questions.
Please register using one of the buttons below:
Prepared Childbirth Classes
This series of classes is designed to provide current information, practical tools, and techniques needed to promote a healthy birth experience. Plus, we have a good time! Partners and coaches are encouraged to participate. Please have a pillow and a blanket/yoga mat.
Every Tuesday for four weeks, 6:00PM – 8:30PM
In person
- January 10 – 31
- February 7 – 28
- March 7 – 28
- April 4 – 25
- May 2 – 23
- May 30 – June 20
- July 11 – August 1
- August 22 – September 12
- September 19 – October 10
- October 17 – November 14 (No 10/31)
- November 28 – December 19
Saturday, one all day class, 10:00AM – 5:00PM
- April 15
- July 15
- October 14
Register for this class using buttons at top of page.
Natural Childbirth Class
This one-session class will focus on personal determination, coping strategies and comfort techniques for women and families interested in an un-medicated birth. Please have a pillow and a blanket/yoga mat.
Thursdays, 6:00PM – 8:30PM
In person
- February 9
- May 18
- August 24
- October 19
Register for this class using buttons at top of page.
Sibling Class
This one-time class is designed for children ages three to twelve and emphasizes the importance of being a big brother or big sister.
Saturdays, 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Via Zoom
- March 11
- August 19
Thursdays, 4:00pm-5:30pm
Via Zoom
- May 11
- November 9
Register for this class using buttons at top of page.
Baby Basics Class
Information and tips on newborns and infants; sleeping, bathing, feeding, diapering, swaddling, medications, immunizations, remedies for fussy babies, milestones and more in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Thursdays, 6:00PM – 8:30PM
In person
- January 5
- February 2
- March 2
- April 6
- May 4
- June 1
- July 6
- August 3
- September 7
- October 5
- November 2
- December 7
Register for this class using buttons at top of page.
Breastfeeding Class
The benefits of breastfeeding, positioning baby for a successful latch and guidelines for knowing that your baby is getting enough breast milk will be discussed. Tips on returning to work and advice regarding pumps and milk storage is included. Partners are also encouraged to attend.
Saturdays, 10:00AM – 12:30PM
In person
- January 7
- February 4
- March 4
- April 1
- May 6
- June 3
- July 8
- August 5
- September 9
- October 7
- November 4
- December 2
Register for this class using buttons at top of page.
Infant CPR Class
You will learn lifesaving skills for infants from birth to one year of age. This is a non-certifying class but is packed with easy to remember information.
Thursdays, 6:00PM – 7:00PM
In person
- January 19
- February 23
- March 23
- April 27
- May 25
- June 22
- July 20
- August 31
- September 28
- October 26
- November 30
- December 14
Register for this class using buttons at top of page.
The Mommy Hour
Looking for a supportive group to understand the emotional highs and lows of motherhood? The Mommy Hour is a weekly group designed for pregnant women and moms who are experiencing the need for additional support. This casual, welcoming group is here for you whether you are looking for resources, emotional support, struggling with perinatal mood and anxiety challenges or simply needing encouragement. Research shows emotional issues are the most common complication of pregnancy. Group facilitators include a Registered Nurse, Lactation Consultant, Childbirth Educator and an MSW.
Wednesdays 10:30 AM -12 PM
To join the virtual group, please contact Wendy Beres at [email protected].
For more information please call (805) 541-2229.
Family Birthing Center Tour
Take a virtual tour of the beautiful Stollmeyer Family Birthing Center at French Hospital Medical Center. For an in-person tour, please call or email our Childbirth Education Coordinator, Tamra Winfield-Pace, RN, at (805) 542-6659 or [email protected].