Do you offer specialized classes?

[MindfulBirth]

I know that most of the folks on this board are doulas first and offer childbirth classes privately for their clients, but I was wondering ..for those that do offer group classes..do you offer specialized classes?

I have been thinking about some classes/workshops I want to offer.

1. Traditional childbirth classes that will inform the parents of the choices that are out there so that they are empowered to pick the best birth for them.
2. Natural childbirth focused class with more in-depth coping techniques.
3. Birthing From Within (once I get that certification).
4. Christian Birth Prep (NOT Ezzo!)
5. Teen childbirth prep.
6. Breastfeeding basics workshop.
7. Slings and Cloth Diapers workshop.
8. Birth Plan workshop.
9. Vaccinations workshop.

I also want to offer services as a Mother Blessing facilitator.

[InnerPeace]

I offer prenatal yoga classes. I am planning to get certified as a Hypnobabies instructor. I'm still developing my other course offerings.

[teachinmamaof4]

I'd like to do a Newborn Care and Breastfeeding Basics.

[truelife]

Three-weeks-ago I taught my first "Relaxation" class and was their doula on Monday. I got their review back last night and it was incredible. They loved it and I watched them use many of the techniques at the hospital. I also offer a class I call "Life Positive" meant to be taken while trying to conceive or in the very beginning of the pregnancy, and a class called "True Preperation" which is the full blown CBE class.

I had two homebirths but my first nearly ended in a transport. I had labored for 45 hours and been in active and dilated to a 9-9.5 for 16 of those hours. My WONDERFUL mw was talking to me about a transport and I flipped. I was terrified! My "Natural Childbirth Classes" hadn't prepared me in the least bit for what would happen if I had to transport. I was my mw's apprentice so I knew a lot of what was going on, the drugs they would offer me once I was there, the chances of me having a c-section but I hadn't mentally prepared myself for the possibility of a transport. I am teaching out of my mw's office now and still do a whole class on hospital procedures and what they will need to know in the event of a transport. It's important and it's empowering. Just thought I would throw that in there - b/c even the most determined/prepared women still end up having to use meds/interventions or end up with a c-section.

[Gentlebirthmama]

I have taught "early-bird" classes...basically prenatal nutrition/exercise classes helping mom learn how to stay healthy and low-risk during pregnancy. It was a once a month free class and a great way to draw people into my childbirth classes.

I hope to do those again soon.

[truelife]

I have never thought about teaching the early class for free! That would be a great way to draw clients into my other classes. Thanks for the idea!

[doulamomma]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gentlebirthmama I have taught "early-bird" classes...basically prenatal nutrition/exercise classes helping mom learn how to stay healthy and low-risk during pregnancy. It was a once a month free class and a great way to draw people into my childbirth classes.

Thats a great idea!

[Alessandra]

I provide pre-conception couselling, which is like an early bird class,but privately. I sit down and talk to people all about their lives and this special moment. I help them stop and really think about conceiving consciously. They must answer the big question, "Am I readdy to have a baby?" because some women come to me telling me that they´re starting their master´s or PhD and want to get pregnant now. ???? We talk about sacrifice and I must admit that some decide that it´s better to wait, if they´re unwilling to give up certain things. Others decide YES! Either way I plant a little seed of positive childbirth beliefs. Also I teach them about how to check for fertily using basal body temp, cervical mucus, charting and by perceiving hormonal changes.
My services:
- Perinatal Assistance/ Doula - Support and education in pre-conception, pregnancy, birth, post-partum, breastfeeding and motherhood.
- Reflexology and Aromatherapy
- Baby Massage Class
- Free Maternity and BF support Group
- Pregnant Mom´s and Couples Group
(support, birth ed, excercise, relaxation techniques, etc)
- Mom and Baby Group
(support, BF/pp/sling ed, playtime, excercise, baby massage, etc)
- Belly casts
i think that´s it???