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The Center for Women, Children and Family Education

 
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Click here to learn about an online childbirth education program available to new moms and families.

Baby 101

Join us for a free, fun, and informative evening to help explain your options for prenatal classes, labor and delivery, doulas, cord blood banking, and maternity fashions. Enjoy a complimentary chair massage and dinner. Sponsored by The Valley Hospital, Viacord, and Destination Maternity. For more information, please call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Babysitters' Class

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Breastfeeding Basics

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Breastfeeding Support Group

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Choices and Challenges in Childbirth: A Personal Consultation

This complimentary 1-hour consultation is for couples who are planning a pregnancy or in the early weeks of pregnancy and are beginning to explore the variety of choices and challenges they may encounter during labor and delivery. This consultation will explore the labor process, your personal preferences, and your options. Learn how to make your delivery the ultimate birthing experience. To schedule your consultation, please call 201-447-8233 or e-mail hbrenne@valleyhealth.com.

Dad's on Duty -- No Moms Allowed

Everyone knows that a man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be somebody's “Daddy.” This is a special class that will not only inform dads on many topics but will inspire them to become the best possible “Daddies.” It is taught by a dynamic father of four whose wisdom and insight will orient you to the true meaning of fatherhood: sleepless nights, an emotional wife, and the need for a second income to pay those bills! It will tie in the emotional aspect of becoming a parent, from early pregnancy through early childhood. The importance of the partner during pregnancy and what to expect during labor and delivery will be addressed. Dads get together and can discuss how they really feel, their fears and anxieties, and get answers to questions on how to overcome them. This class will identify and explain the value of developing and maintaining a strong father/child bond during the formative years of a child’s life. Learn how and why dads must play an active role in raising their children. Some general baby care and “hands-on” practice using lifelike doll will be a part of this fun class “Just for Dads!” This class can be taken at any time from early pregnancy through the last few weeks before delivery. For more information, please call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Family and Friends CPR

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.

Grandparents’ Class

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Happiest Baby on the Block

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 baby’s 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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Healing Hearts Support Group

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.

Infant and Child Safety

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Marvelous Multiples

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

New Mom Support Group

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.

Newborn Care Class

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Pediatric Tour

Provides children with the opportunity to become familiar with places in the hospital where they would likely be going during a hospitalization and to see, touch and feel the equipment and supplies that would be used. As an adjunct to the tour, a videotape is available for loan from the Pre-Admission Testing Department. For more information, call 201-447-8350.

Pets & Babies

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Private Classes

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

Sibling Attending Birth Classes -- Private Lesson

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 mother’s 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 Valley’s 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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Sibling Classes

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. A tour of Valley's Center for Childbirth is part of this class. For more information, please call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Tour of the Center for Childbirth

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com

The Ultimate Birthing Experience

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

What is Cord Blood Banking?

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 newborn’s 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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Yoga -- Baby & Me Yoga

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com.

Yoga -- Prenatal Yoga

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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com

Yoga -- Toddler Yoga

Using yoga poses, this amusing and active class encourages your toddler’s 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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com

Yoga -- Women’s Health Yoga

Practice the science and art of self-illumination through yoga. This yoga class addresses the specific needs of a woman’s 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 call 201-291-6151 or e-mail us at familyeducation@valleyhealth.com


The Valley Hospital offers a wide array of women's and children's services, including Maternal-Fetal MedicineThe Center for ChildbirthThe Center for Women, Children and Family Education, and The Kireker Center for Child Development. Maternal and Child Health services are provided in the home by Valley Home Care.