BENNINGTON, Vt. — Southwestern Vermont Health Care (SVHC) is now hosting classes for new parents online.

 

New parents are invited to register for the classes at svhealthcare.org/Classes-Events. The new format allows families to get the information they need from the comfort and safety of their own homes.

 

"While we would all prefer to deliver these classes in person, as we did before the pandemic, we are grateful to be able to offer them online," said Pamela Duchene, vice president of Patient Care Services and chief nursing officer said. "Thanks to our dedicated nurses for teaching these important classes in this new way."

 

Classes include:

 

Hospital to Home

Next Session: 4 – 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020

Registered Nurse Lindsay Moran leads this interactive class, which reviews care for the new family and the new baby from delivery to home and beyond. Topics include hospital discharge, care for mom after delivery, infant feeding, soothing techniques for baby, infant safety, and wellness. Grandparents and adopting parents will also find this class helpful.

 

Childbirth Education

Next Session: 7 – 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 5, 2020

This is a hybrid class that includes several videos to watch in advance. Then Registered Nurse Kristin Andrew will meet you virtually for a live question-and-answer session. The during the video portion of the class, new parents will learn the physical and mental skills needed to cope with the discomforts of labor and delivery; the anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, labor and delivery; use of medication and anesthesia; the role of the support person; and more. The virtual Q & A will provide parents the opportunity to ask all of their questions.

 

Breastfeeding for New Parents

Next Session: 6 – 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020

Registered Nurse and Certified Lactation Consultant Marie Watson has taught hundreds of families to breastfeed throughout her decades-long career. The class includes beginner information for new parents and members of their support teams, including the benefits of breastfeeding, what to expect during the first feedings, positioning options, helpful equipment, returning to work, overcoming challenges, and more. Filled with informational videos and anecdotes, this is a fun and engaging way to learn more about giving your baby the best start. 

 

Register for the classes at svhealthcare.org/Classes-Events. The instructor will send a link to join the remote sessions a day or two in advance of the session. Joining is easy. At the class time, attendees simply click the link and follow the prompts join the class. They will be able to see and hear the instructor, and the instructor will be able to see and hear them. For questions or to register by phone, call 802-447-5019.