Perinatal and Baby Care Classes

Sian Horan

NURSE MANAGER

BScN, Nurse Clinician

Sian has long been passionate about innovative client care and is the lead professional responsible for designing and implementing our youth-focused perinatal and baby care classes. Leveraging her capacity as a nurse clinician, and her experience in clinic development and as a nursing professor, Sian ensures that our programs are not only compliant, but also meet the highest standards of care. Her approach is rooted in providing compassionate and personalized support, reflecting her commitment to the well-being of every individual she works with.

Sian has crafted Options perinatal and baby care classes to address the unique needs of pregnant youth and young parents, who will gain confidence and skills within a supportive and nurturing environment. Our goal is that participants will feel empowered, encouraged, and equipped to provide excellent care for themselves and their new baby.

"I want to use my skills and giftings as a nurse to serve the youth in our community. I want to be there for them as a guide, to be a non-judgemental voice for youth who are facing stigma."

Options perinatal and baby care classes are created and facilitated by a nurse, and are specifically tailored to give space and time to meet the unique needs of pregnant youth in a comfortable, community setting. Youth will feel equipped, empowered, and encouraged as they learn to take excellent care of themselves and their new little one.

Pregnancy Basics

Understanding the stages of pregnancy
Physical and emotional changes during pregnancy
Nutrition and exercise guidelines

Labor and Delivery

Signs of labor and when to go to the hospital
Pain management options (e.g., epidurals, breathing techniques, natural methods)
The stages of labor and delivery process
What to expect during a cesarean section

Partner and Support Roles

How partners and support persons can assist during labor and delivery
Building a support network and understanding the roles of different support people

Creating a Birth Plan

Options for birthing plans
Communicating preferences with healthcare providers
Flexibility and adapting to unexpected changes during labor

Feeding a newborn

Newborn nutritional needs
Benefits of breastfeeding
Techniques for successful breastfeeding

Infant Care

Newborn basics: feeding, diapering, bathing, and dressing
Understanding newborn sleep patterns and safe sleep practices
Recognizing signs of illness and when to seek medical help

Postpartum Care

Physical and emotional recovery after childbirth
Managing postpartum symptoms and mental health
Self-care and support for new parents

Safety and Preparedness

Preparing the home for a new baby
Basics of car seat safety and installation
Emergency preparedness and creating a list of contacts

Baby Care Classes for Youth

OPTIONS baby care classes are designed specifically for young parents. Our program is tailored to equip with essential skills, empower with confidence, and provide encouragement for this new journey. Through hands-on learning and supportive guidance, we aim to provide tools and knowledge for young people to confidently care for baby and thrive in their role as a parent.

Join us in a welcoming and nurturing environment where your unique needs are understood and addressed, helping you build a strong foundation for you and your little one.

Newborn Basics

Feeding (breastfeeding, formula feeding, introducing solids)
Diapering (changing techniques, diaper rash prevention)
Bathing (safe bathing practices, choosing baby products)
Dressing and undressing (layering, clothing choices for different weather)

Bonding and Emotional Care

Techniques for building a strong bond with the baby
Understanding and responding to baby's cues and cries
Promoting emotional and social development

Handling and Soothing

Proper techniques for holding and carrying a baby
Soothing methods for calming a fussy baby
Swaddling and other comfort techniques

Infant Sleep

Establishing a sleep routine
Safe sleep practices (e.g., sleep position, crib safety)
Understanding sleep patterns and how to soothe a baby

Feeding Challenges

Addressing common feeding issues (e.g., colic, reflux)
Introducing and managing solid foods
Handling feeding schedules and nutrition

Baby Development

Milestones in physical, cognitive, and emotional development
Stimulating activities and play for different stages
Understanding and supporting developmental changes

Health and Safety

Recognizing signs of illness and when to seek medical care
Basic first aid and infant CPR
Immunizations and regular check-ups

Creating a Safe Environment

Baby-proofing the home
Safe sleeping arrangements
Selecting and using baby gear (e.g., car seats, cribs)

Postpartum Care for Parents

Managing sleep deprivation and stress
Self-care and recovery for new parents
Finding support and resources

Father's Role and Involvement

Supporting the partner during labor and delivery
Building a bond with the baby and engaging in caregiving tasks
Balancing work and family life, including paternity leave options
Providing emotional support to the partner and adapting to changes in the relationship
Learning practical skills for baby care and being an active participant in parenting