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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).
  • Classes are limited to those delivering at the Stollmeyer Family Birthing Center at French Hospital Medical Center only.
  • All classes are free.

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

  • Jan 9 - 30
  • Feb 6 - 27
  • March 5 - 26
  • April 2 - 23
  • April 30- May 21
  • May 28 - June 18
  • July 30 - August 20
  • August 27 - Sept 17
  • Sept 24 - Oct 15
  • Oct 22 - Nov 12
  • Nov 19 - Dec 17 (No Class 11/26) 

Saturday, one all day class, 10:00AM – 5:00PM

  • March 16
  • June 22
  • September 21 

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

  • January 18
  • April 18
  • August 22
  • October 17

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 4
  • February 1
  • March 7
  • April 4
  • May 2
  • June 6
  • July 18
  • August 1
  • September 5
  • October 3
  • November 7
  • December 5

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 13
  • February 3
  • March 9
  • April 6
  • May 4
  • June 1
  • July 13
  • August 3
  • September 7
  • October 5
  • November 2
  • December 7

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 25
  • February 29
  • March 21
  • April 25
  • May 30
  • June 13
  • July 25
  • August 29
  • September 28
  • October 24
  • November 21
  • December 12

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].

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