Infant Care Class
Hi All,
I'm a new dad (my daughter is 4 months) who recently got served divorce papers. My lawyer has suggested taking a infant care parenting class that ideally should be in-person and between 6-8 weeks long... I've scoured the internet but haven't been able to find anything that would meet this specific criteria. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Thanks!
May 21, 2019
Parent Replies
I don't know about one class that will be specifically that long but maybe a combo of programs? Call Then Comes Baby, the offer lots of New parent classes and would be a good resource to help you out.
http://then-comes-baby.com/classes/new-parent-first-year/
If you're a Kaiser member, they offer parenting classes, including "baby and me", which sounds like the kind of thing you're looking for. You can check their website or ask your pediatrician. Often they're free.
Also look at First Five. I don't know where you live, but every county has one, and they offer classes. The San Pablo location, for example, this month had a "positive development for young children" class and a "nurturing parents" class that should fit the bill. Their classes are free but require registration. The June schedule and registration info should be posted soon. Check whatever location is closest to you.
Hi,
Birthways have infant care classes. https://birthways.org/classes/
Bananas (https://bananasbunch.org/) is another resource for parents.
Good luck!
Try Family Paths 800-829-3777 in Oakland. They have a Fatherhood Program with series of classes.
You can also call 211 for more resources.
Good luck!
Good luck, Dad. This is a fun, rewarding time for you and your child but also occasionally challenging because their motor skills and communication skills are still in their early stages. I would suggest contacting your local hospital (that has a prenatal, neonatal department) and ask if they have infant care classes. I would also ask Bananas in Oakland if they know of any classes. They have lots of info and resources on their website on children, parenting and child care. www.bananasbunch.org. A good website for milestones and tips on infant care is What to Expect (https://www.whattoexpect.com/milestones/). When your baby is about 10 months old and you're ready to introduce her to some fun outside of the typical local park system, I would take her to Habitot Children's Museum where there are a lot of toddlers learning exploration and confidence. Most everything there is toddler friendly and t's also a good place to meet other parents. They also have some helpful handouts. When my son was a baby, I took him to Gymboree music classes starting at 6 months old. A little pricey but we made some good friends during the 6 months he was taking classes. I'm sure there are other classes but this is a start. The thing that is the hardest at this time is patience. Take it easy on yourself, your baby and her mom. Even if you're no longer married, you're still a team when it comes to raising your baby. Your daughter is more intuitive and smarter than she seems yet she is not able to clearly communicate her feelings---yet. All of you are learning so definitely don't be too hard on yourself or her. Finally, remember that hugs and a song go a long way. Good luck.
Thank you all, really appreciate all suggestions and kind words!!!