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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. To register, call 201-291-6151.
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. To register, call 201-291-6151.
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 a.m. to noon at the Kraft Center 15 Essex Road Paramus NJ at no charge.
Kireker Center for Child Development Community Programs
For area day care centers, nursery schools, schools and community groups. Professionals are available to speak on a variety of topics related to normal and atypical infant and child development, what indicates a referral, and screenings when requested. For information, call the Center at 201-612-1006.
Kireker Center for Child Development Parent Support Group
This monthly meeting is open to parents interested in a variety of topics related to early childhood development, developmental disabilities, the special-needs child and family, therapeutic intervention, genetics and assistance in seeking resources in the community. For information, call the center at 201-447-8278.
Comprehensive Weekend Lamaze Classes
This special two-day weekend course is designed for those couples who find it difficult to attend a Lamaze Childbirth series. It is taught by a Certified Childbirth Educator. Topics included are the same as those of the regular series, but in a condensed manner. Space is limited. This weekend should be scheduled early and completed four to six weeks prior to the due date. To register, call 201-291-6151.
CPR for Infants and Children: "Pediatric Basic Life Support" Class
Course includes: infant and child safety concerns, skill demonstration for CPR Heimlich maneuver, and instructor-led practice scenarios. The course is designed for the lay person seeking knowledge and skills related to the safety and emergency care of infants and children. Registration is required. Registration forms can be obtained by calling 201-291-6149. Registration forms must be received 5 business days before the start date of a class.
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. To register, call 201-291-6151.
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. To register, call 201-291-6151.
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. To register, call 201-291-6151.
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. To register, call 201-291-6151.
Infant Massage with Baby
The bonds of love and trust begin through the gentle touch you will learn at Infant Massage with Baby. These gentle techniques will calm your baby, aid digestion, improve sleep patterns, boost immunity and promote parent-baby bonding. Learn the most powerful form of communication between you and your baby that will last a lifetime while sharing experiences with other new moms. To register, call 201-291-6151.
Lamaze Childbirth Classes
The Lamaze Childbirth Preparation classes will prepare the expectant mother and her support person for the birthing experience. Topics covered in the series include comfort tips for the last weeks of pregnancy, the process of labor and birth, coaching skills for comfort measures, coping methods such as breathing and relaxation techniques, medications, anesthesia and vaginal and cesarean birth. Videos on many of these topics will be included. Early registration is encouraged—classes should be completed four to five weeks prior to the due date. To register, call 201-291-6151.
Lamaze Refresher/VBAC Class
This class includes a thorough review of labor and delivery. Relaxation and breathing techniques, coaching strategies, comfort measures, medications and anesthesia, sibling adjustment and a video about labor and delivery are included. The VBAC class is for couples who have had a previous cesarean section birth and are interested in a vaginal birth with this pregnancy. It is taught by a Certified Childbirth Educator. The class includes a review of labor/delivery, relaxation, breathing and coaching techniques. Information and preparation specifically for VBAC couples, as well as a video with couples who have successfully had a VBAC birth, will be included in class. This class should be taken four to six weeks prior to due date. To register, call 201-291-6151.
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. To register, call 201-291-6151.
New Mom Support Group
This group meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Luckow Pavilion in Paramus. Discussion centers on postpartum issues moms deal with including postpartum depression. The group is facilitated by a clinical social worker. Contact Trudy Heerema 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. To register, call 201-291-6151.
Parents of Children with Asthma Support Group
A support group dealing with the fear and frustrations of raising a child with asthma. For information, call 1-800-VALLEY 1 (1-800-825-5391).
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, Where to feed your pet, etc. To register, call 201-291-6151.
Private Classes
Private classes are available for all of the programs listed here. Please call the Parent Education Department at 201-291-6151 for the fees and to set up individual appointments.
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. To register, call 201-291-6151.
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. To register, call 201-291-6151.
Speak Up When You're Down
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), 7-8 p.m. at the Robert & Audrey Luckow Pavilion, and on Wednesdays (1st and 3rd), 11 a.m.-noon at the Valley Hospital Conference Center. Contact Trudy Heerema, MSW, at 201-447-8539 for more information.
Student Sports Medicine Education Program
Education programs offered to high school students interested in pursuing careers in sports medicine. Programs are held in the spring and fall. For information, call the Sports Institute at 201-447-8133.
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 and can be made by calling the Parent Education Office at 201-291-6151.
Yoga -- Baby & Me Yoga
This is a yoga class for mothers and their babies, age 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. To register, call 201-291-6151.
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). To register, call 201-291-6151.
For more information on our Parent Education classes, please call 201-291-6151 or email us webinfo@valleyhealth.com.
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