Starting the journey into parenthood can be both thrilling and overwhelming. Many expectant parents think they’ll learn on the go or rely on friends and family for guidance. While support networks are invaluable, first-time parent classes—like Welcome Baby’s antenatal program—offer dedicated, up-to-date, and professional guidance that equips you with the knowledge, confidence, and support you need. We designed these classes not only to educate but to empower and connect. Here’s why our classes go beyond traditional preparation and are helping parents feel prepared, supported, and confident from the very start.
Why We Offer Antenatal Classes for First-Time Parents
At Welcome Baby, we saw a gap in support for first-time parents. While Midwives and Obstetricians provide excellent resources and support, Our classes are here to reinforce what you learn from your primary care provider and offer ongoing, in-depth support.
From pregnancy to postpartum care, we are committed to providing information that’s current, reliable, and tailored for first-time parents. Beyond information, our passion is in building relationships, offering reassurance, and helping you feel fully supported.
Dispelling the Myth: “Do I Really Need a Parenting Class?”
It’s common to feel that because you’ve been around younger relatives or received advice from friends, you might not need a formal class. But parenting comes with complexities that aren’t always obvious until you’re living it, and we believe that preparation helps you meet these challenges with confidence. Our classes aren’t only about what to expect during pregnancy or labor; they also provide practical tools for coping with the early months, insights into newborn care, and advice on mental and emotional readiness.
Parenting has evolved, and with that, so have resources and techniques. What worked for previous generations might not align with today’s best practices, and our classes provide up-to-date guidance. We also know that every parent brings unique experiences and needs to the table, and we aim to address those personally. Many couples returning for their third or fourth child have shared that they feel a renewed sense of confidence through these classes, knowing they’re giving their family the best possible start.
When to Begin: Starting Classes After 28 Weeks
For expectant parents, the ideal time to begin antenatal classes is around 28 weeks of pregnancy. Parents are also typically ready to dive into the details of birth and early parenthood. Starting classes at this point also allows us to keep information fresh and relevant as you enter the final trimester, giving you ample time to absorb and apply what you learn.
What to Expect at Each Lesson
Our Welcome Baby classes are structured to provide comprehensive support and practical guidance from the third trimester all the way to the care & safety of the newborn. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
- Introduction and Birth Preparation: Starting with the third trimester and how to manage through it, we’ll then walk you through the stages of labor, pain management options, breathing techniques, and what to expect for both a caesarean section and vaginal birth. We also reinforce the importance of knowing the early warning signs in pregnancy and when to urgent seek medical attention
- Understanding Birth Plans and Partner Support: We help parents communicate their wishes and empower partners to be active participants.
- Newborn Care and Safety: We guide you through essential newborn care, helping you understand the adjustments a neonate makes to life outside the womb. From nutrition and feeding to sleep and hygiene, we provide practical techniques for nurturing your baby while emphasizing safety measures to ensure their well-being.
- Postpartum Wellness: Our classes address physical and emotional recovery, guiding you through the transition and helping you understand what to expect in the first weeks at home.
The Benefits of Virtual Classes
For the comfort and convenience of our parents-to-be, Welcome Baby offers virtual classes, enabling you to join from home or any comfortable setting. This option can be especially helpful if you’re on bed rest, living far from our physical locations, or simply prefer to participate from a place that feels familiar. Virtual classes also make it easier for both the mom to be and their birthing partner to attend regardless of scheduling challenges.
Accessible to All: Medical Aid, Pro-Bono, and Cash Clients Welcome
At Welcome Baby, we believe that every expectant parent should have access to quality antenatal education. We accept medical aid clients, pro-bono clients, and cash clients to ensure that financial considerations don’t limit access to our classes. We also offer gift vouchers, so family and friends can contribute to your journey, providing a meaningful gift that goes beyond material items. Whether you’re a new parent or welcoming another child, we’re here to help you feel as prepared and supported as possible.
Real Stories from Welcome Baby Families
Many families have walked through our doors (virtually or in person) over the years, and their stories underscore the diverse reasons that bring them to antenatal classes:
A Returning Parent’s New Journey: One mother, attending her third pregnancy with us, shared that her mother was a great support with her previous babies, but after her mother’s passing, she felt overwhelmed with the thought of parenting without that same help. She joined our classes, finding a community and practical support that helped her feel more confident and connected this time around.
A Second Chance for a Young Mom: Another mom, who had her first child at a young age, had a challenging experience with limited guidance. Now, with her second pregnancy, she is committed to creating a more positive experience by arming herself with the knowledge, tools, and community support that Welcome Baby provides.
Empowering First-Time Parents: One expectant mother, preparing for her first child, was referred to our classes by her obstetrician. Initially, she was a bit surprised by the concept of a parenting class, unsure if it was necessary. However, as she and her partner attended each session, they found it to be both empowering and enlightening. The classes dispelled common myths and misconceptions, providing the latest insights and practical skills to approach parenting with confidence. She later shared, “It felt like having a coach—not for my career, but for my journey into motherhood.” The course gave her and her partner the tools they needed, helping them feel truly prepared and supported every step of the way.
Our Welcome Baby antenatal classes provide the support and knowledge that go beyond basic preparation. Offering expectant parents not just information but the reassurance and confidence they need. Parenting may not come with a manual, but with the right support, it can feel a whole lot more manageable.
If you’re ready to feel supported, knowledgeable, and connected as you step into parenthood, we invite you to join our classes and experience the difference that informed, compassionate guidance can make.