The Center for Family Education

Trusting the care of your newborn to others is a difficult adjustment for new parents. Babysitters' Class will give caregivers necessary information on a variety of topics. These will include subjects such as changing diapers, feeding, holding a baby, infant safety concerns, first aid, and where and how to contact the police, parents, pediatrician, poison control centers, and other emergency personnel. It is suggested that this class be taken close to the time when babysitting is needed. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

Mother's milk is considered the perfect food for a newborn. It gives the newborn a healthy start. This class covers the advantages of breastfeeding, getting off to a good start in the hospital, techniques that work, positions that are comfortable, signs of adequate infant intake, returning to work, collection and storage of breast milk, and correct use of pumping equipment. Dads / significant others are welcome to attend. This class should be taken four weeks before the due date. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

Mother's milk is considered the perfect food for a newborn. It gives the newborn a healthy start. This support group is for new moms who are having trouble breastfeeding and need some help. The group is led by a certified lactation consultant. It is held every Thursday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Kraft Center, 15 Essex Road, in Paramus, NJ, at no charge. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

This class is designed to help you and your partner begin your exciting new journey! Held on the second Tuesday of every other month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., come join other couples for an informal discussion about you and your obstetrician, what happens in the office visit, and all The Valley Hospital has to offer the new pregnant family! Light refreshments will be served. Your excitement and discussion are welcomed! Presented by Heidi Brenner, CNM, certified nurse midwife and coordinator of The Valley Hospital’s Center for Holistic Birth. Registration is required for this free class. All classes are held at The Valley Hospital (room location will be confirmed when you call to register). To register, call 201-447-8488.

This is an American Heart Association course designed for families and members of the general community who wish to learn CPR lifesaving skills but do not require a formal credential. The program provides instruction in CPR and relief of choking as appropriate to adults, children, and infants. These skills are taught by American Heart Association certified instructors and are presented in a "practice while watching" format. Courses run approximately three hours. The fee is $40 per person which includes a booklet. For more information, please call 201-291-6100.

Designed to strengthen the body for all the changes it will experience during pregnancy. This 60-minute class includes cardio, strength, flexibility, and balance training. The class accommodates all stages of pregnancy and various fitness levels. We recommend athletic shoes, a towel or mat, and plenty of water. Classes are held at Destination Maternity, 65 Route 4 West, Paramus, NJ. To register for this class, please click here. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

The grandparents' class will provide information on the latest ideas in childbirth practices and child development. It will encourage a better understanding between parents and grandparents concerning decisions and suggestions involved in childcare. Answers will be provided to such questions as What's new in childbirth? and What's different between then and now? Topics to be covered will include newborn care, infant feeding, ways to soothe a crying baby, infant safety, childproofing a home, toys for various ages and other concerns for new grandparents. This class should be taken at the end of pregnancy or early after the birth. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

Learn the techniques of the world-renowned pediatrician, Dr. Harvey Karp. Our Parent Educators are certified through Dr. Karp and by attending this program you will learn how his approach may help prevent breastfeeding failure, postpartum depression, exhaustion, marital stress, and even shaken baby syndrome. It also helps fathers become more involved with their babys care and help them feel more competent and secure. Every new parent will receive a Happiest Baby DVD/VHS to watch at home. Learning his baby calming techniques will help parents be more confident and help babies be happier and sleep better. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

A monthly self-help support group for parents who are experiencing perinatal grief. The group is led by a certified bereavement counselor. Reservations are not required. For information, call Trudy Heerema at 201-447-8539.

Holistic Birth Consultations are available free of charge for patients delivering at Valley. Valley's holistic birth consultants are available to answer questions and meet with you periodically for guidance, introduce you to the concepts of holism and ways in which we can assist you during pregnancy and birth, and assist you in creating a birth experience that is unique to you and your family. Our consultants will familiarize you with the Center for Childbirth "family" so that you have an enriched comfort as your special day approaches. To schedule your consultation, please call 201-447-8084.

Babies need food, shelter and love. They also need a safe environment. Accidents are the leading cause of injury to children, and being aware of the many potential hazards to an infant is necessary for prevention. Topics covered include car seat safety, poison prevention, childproofing a home, furniture and toy safety, and many concerns of new parents. Knowing what to do in an emergency will make parents feel more confident in caring for their infants. Opportunities to practice on lifelike dolls will be provided. Childcare providers are also welcome to register for this class. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

This class is designed to assist expectant parents of multiples to: practice healthy pregnant lifestyles through sound nutrition, exercise, rest and stress management techniques, learn about the physical and emotional challenges of multiple pregnancy and identify the accompanying signs and symptoms, be prepared for the variances in labor, delivery and recovery of multiples through knowledge and confidence in the birth process, gain practical skills and problem-solving information about life at home with multiples, participate in a network with other parents of multiples for mutual support, and anticipate their new family with feelings of preparedness and joy. The class includes all the basic information from Lamaze Childbirth Preparation. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

This 4-week course for Jewish expectant parents is offered in conjunction with the Fair Lawn Jewish Center. The first two weeks of this series will address Jewish traditions around childbirth and newborns as well as explore how Judaism can help you raise your child in a happy, healthy family. Topics to be discussed include bris (ritual circumcision), baby naming, choosing a Hebrew name, holidays, bedtime routines, family dynamics, interfaith parenting, Jewish books, music and toys for young children, and what to look for in a childcare provider. Week three will be a Newborn Care class, and week four will be a Valley Hospital Maternity Tour. Click here for more information.

This new mother's support group meets weekly and is facilitated by a clinical social worker. Discussion centers on issues concerning postpartum depression. The group meets on Tuesdays (2nd and 4th) from 7 - 8 p.m., and on Wednesdays (1st and 3rd) from 11 a.m. - noon at The Valley Hospital Conference Center. Contact Trudy Heerema, MSW, at 201-447-8539 for more information.

Babies aren't born with instruction sheets! Newborn Care Class will provide all the basics of newborn care that are necessary for new parents to gain confidence in caring for a newborn. Topics covered include bathing and bath products, diapering, holding, feeding, umbilical cord care, taking a baby's temperature, dressing, sleep patterns, crying, when to call the pediatrician, first aid, and many other aspects of newborn care. This class should be taken several weeks before expected delivery. Childcare providers are also welcome to register for this class. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

Making food for your baby can be quick and easy when you know how. Come see a demonstration about how to make homemade baby food in batches. The benefits are many (including lower cost), and you will feel satisfied knowing that you are providing the best nourishment for your little one. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151. As part of our Smart Start program, you can take this class for free if you sign up for three or more classes. Click here for details.

Good nutrition during pregnancy is essential for the healthy development of your baby. This class will address the basics of nutrition as well as what is safe to eat and what foods to avoid during pregnancy. Current guidelines for breastfeeding will be provided. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151. As part of our Smart Start program, you can take this class for free if you sign up for three or more classes. Click here for details.

Every parent wants the best for their children and that includes providing healthy good. This class will discuss the potential health benefits of purchasing organic foods for your children. What are the dirty dozen, and which fruits and vegetables are less contaminated by pesticides? For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151. As part of our Smart Start program, you can take this class for free if you sign up for three or more classes. Click here for details.

This class will help you to navigate your busy schedule and prepare healthy food for your family. Learn techniques and strategies that will simplify and streamline the cooking process. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151. As part of our Smart Start program, you can take this class for free if you sign up for three or more classes. Click here for details.

Expecting a baby? Don't forget about your four-legged first baby, your cat or dog. There WILL be adjustments to make. This class will teach expectant parents tried and true methods to a happy home for all family members. A little preparation and training can ensure a smooth transition for your pet and baby. The number one reason an animal is sent to the pound is because it has not been properly trained for the new baby. Pets & Babies offers pet owners the answers to their crucial concerns. A professional dog trainer and handler will instruct the class, along with the assistance of a pet therapy dog. Learn leash etiquette, how to bring the baby into the home for the first time, how to sleep with your pet, how to say no to your pet, and where to feed your pet. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

Private classes are available for all of the programs listed here. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

The birth of a baby into a family is a very exciting experience. This very special program is designed for those families who would like to share this experience together. With approval from the mothers obstetrician, the child and his/her own support person may be present at the birth of the newest family member. Children 4 years of age and older may participate. The child, parents and support person all must attend this private class. This class will include easy-to-understand explanations of what mom is feeling, why she is uncomfortable, how the child can be helpful and techniques to make mom comfortable. A video of a child attending birth will be shown, and a tour of Valleys Center for Childbirth is included. Arrangements for this program should be made at least six to eight weeks prior to the expected due date. The class should be completed three to four weeks before the expected due date. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

The birth of a baby is an exciting event for the whole family. Big brothers and big sisters enjoy this class designed specifically for them. Sibling class will encourage positive feelings about a sibling's place in the family and toward the new baby. Classroom activities, using a doll, include touching, diapering and holding a new baby. What a baby looks like and what the baby can do, along with various safety issues will be discussed. Children 3 to 7 years are encouraged to attend the Sibling Class. This class should be attended three to four weeks before mother's due date. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

A total fitness program that moms can do with their babies. It includes power walking and intervals of strength and body toning exercises using exercise tubing, the stroller, and the environment. We recommend athletic shoes, a towel, plenty of water, and your baby's stroller. To register for this class, please click here. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

For expectant parents, a guided tour of the Mother/Baby and Labor & Delivery Units in the Center for Childbirth is offered. Reservations are required. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

No matter how your baby arrives - natural delivery, Caesarean section, induction - the birth of your baby should be an incredible experience. It is important that you clearly understand the healthcare decisions you will face as you prepare for birth. This class will give you the tools you need to separate health news from hype so you can make healthcare decisions that fit your needs and birth preferences. Bring your support person: you don't want to miss this class! To ensure a spot in the class, please enroll by your 30th week of pregnancy.

This class is offered in a five week series, a two-day Saturday intensified series, or in a one-time Refresher class. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

This one-session class will discuss the topic of cord blood banking, which is the collection and storage of the stem cells found in your newborns umbilical cord. There is only one chance to collect your child's cord blood. Find out if it is right for your family. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

This is a yoga class for mothers and their babies, ages 6 weeks to 1 year, which is both challenging and relaxing. It addresses postpartum conditions such as back strain, weak abdominal wall and pelvic floor, tight shoulders, sleeplessness and stress. It helps women regain strength, as well as adapt and grow in their new role as mother. It is an opportunity to nourish that profound bond with baby. A sense of community in this class allows moms to discuss any concerns or share information and ideas on parenting in a nurturing environment. A certified yoga instructor facilitates this class. For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

Through yoga, a woman can prepare physically, mentally and emotionally for giving birth and becoming a mother. Moms-to-be are led through a wide range of poses adapted to the ever-changing pregnant body, preparing her for labor and motherhood, as well as helping to alleviate some of the discomforts of pregnancy. Yoga helps a woman tap into her inner wisdom which is her best guide through pregnancy, birth and motherhood. All the Prenatal Yoga classes are at Destination Maternity, 65 Route 4 West, Paramus, NJ 07652 (in the Learning Studio). For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

Using yoga poses, this amusing and active class encourages your toddlers explorations of the environment around them, all while having you by their side. Lay the foundation for a healthy lifestyle and have fun together. All the Toddler Yoga classes are at Destination Maternity, 65 Route 4 West, Paramus, NJ 07652 (in the Learning Studio). For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.

Practice the science and art of self-illumination through yoga. This yoga class addresses the specific needs of a womans physiology and can promote your physical, mental, and spiritual health. For non-pregnant women of all ages. All of the Women's Health Yoga classes are at Destination Maternity, 65 Route 4 West, Paramus, NJ 07652 (in the Learning Studio). For more information, please e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com or call 201-291-6151.