Understanding what to expect in pregnancy and how to care for your baby will enable you to give your baby the best possible start. Columbia Center offers a variety of classes and educational events to prepare you for childbirth and parenthood, helping you feel more relaxed and confident with the entire process.

Classes

Healthy Pregnancy — Complimentary

You are encouraged to attend this single-session class as early as possible in your pregnancy. View additional information about the topics covered in this class, class dates and register online.

Childbirth & Early Parenting Preparation — $75
Six-class evening series or two-class Saturday series attended during the last trimester of your pregnancy. View additional information about the topics covered in this class, class dates and register online.

Breastfeeding Your Baby — Complimentary
This class will help you get off to a good start and enjoy continued success with breastfeeding. View additional information about the topics covered in this class, class dates and register online.

Breastfeeding in Your Busy Life — $15
Whether you are returning to work, school, or staying at home, you can continue to breastfeed and enjoy an active lifestyle. This class should be attended following baby’s birth. View additional information about the topics covered in this class, class dates and register online.

Childbirth Refresher — $35
If you have previously given birth, this class – attended in the last two months of pregnancy – is just right for you. View additional information about the topics covered in this class, class dates and register online.

Sibling Preparation — $15 per family
This class, for children 4- to 10-years-old, will introduce them to Columbia Center and help prepare for the new baby. View additional information about the topics covered in this class, class dates and register online.

Tender Touch Infant Massage — $30
This two-class series offers parents an opportunity to learn massage techniques to soothe baby, enhance bonding and promote infant and parent interaction. Classes are attended with your baby. View additional information about the topics covered in this class, class dates and register online.

Regularly Scheduled Educational Events

In addition to these classes, there are several regularly scheduled events that also can help you prepare for childbirth and parenthood. (All of the following events are provided by Columbia Center on a complimentary basis.)

Moms' Group
Come join us each Wednesday as parents of new babies gather to share the joys, challenges and treasured moments of early parenthood. Learn parenting secrets and tips with other parents. All families with babies from birth to toddler age are welcome to attend. View additional information about the topics frequently discussed in Moms' Group.
(Note: Registration is not required to attend Moms' Group.)

Meet the Doulas
We invite you to join us for our Meet the Doulas gathering held once each month and get acquainted with our doulas. Meet the Doulas is held in the Columbia Center Family Lounge. View additional information about Meet the Doulas.
(Note: Registration is not required to attend Meet the Doulas.)

Beyond the Baby Blues
Beyond the Baby Blues Support Group is a resource for any mother (or her family member) concerned about the wide range of emotions of motherhood. We want you to know you are not alone and it will get better.The group meets every Tuesday and anyone is welcome to participate, following a brief screening by one of our team members. View additional information, support group dates and registration instructions for Beyond the Baby Blues.

Meet the Baby Doc
Meet the Baby Doc is an informal gathering where expectant and new parents can meet with a pediatrician or family physician in a casual setting and learn more about how to choose the right doctor for their child. View additional information, event dates and register online.

Special Educational Events

For other educational events offered on a one-time basis, refer to the Events section of the website.