Childbirth Classes

The Power of Birth Childbirth Class Options

Our childbirth classes are available in a paced five-week series or a comprehensive weekend intensive option.

During our five-week series, we provide a thorough understanding of the childbirth process. We delve deep into the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy and labor and emphasize the importance of trust in your body. Our classes also provide a supportive environment for you to address your fears, worries, and expectations about pregnancy, birth, and parenthood. With Family Picnic, you're not just attending a class; you're joining a community.

Upcoming Class: Wednesdays, Jan. 28th - February 25th, 7:00 - 9:30 pm

During The Power of Birth Weekend Intensive Class, we help prepare pregnant people and their partners for childbirth. Through the examination of how a woman's body prepares for, labors, and gives birth, you will discover the amazing changes that will take place and how trust in your body is paramount. Moms and partners leave class feeling confident in her ability to birth her baby.

Upcoming Classes:

*January Weekend Class is full! Don't wait to sign up for our March class!

Saturday & Sunday, Mar. 28th & 29th, 12:00 - 5: 00 pm

Cost: $350 (price per couple)

Click on one of the buttons below to sign up for The Power of Birth class that works best for you.

Pelvic Floor Prep for birth

A workshop for pregnant people

Taught by Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist, Natalia Avelar, DPT, PRPC
This class offers an in-depth introduction to the pelvic floor, focusing on its crucial role during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how the pelvic floor functions during labor and delivery, and learn techniques to optimize your birth experience. Through guided practice, you’ll learn:

• Breath and pelvic floor coordination to prepare for pushing
  
• Explore ways to soften and lengthen the pelvic floor and
• perineum for smoother delivery
  
• The benefits of perineal massage starting at 34 weeks
• Labor positions that enhance hip and pelvic mobility to aid in labor progression
  
• Essential tips for initiating a strong postpartum recovery. 

This class is designed to compliment our 5-week or weekend intensive Childbirth Classes and empower you with the knowledge and tools for a confident, empowered birth.

Cost: $100

Upcoming class dates:

TBD

Labor Review Class: A Refresher Class for 2nd or 3rd Pregnancies

Pregnant with your second or third baby? Feeling like you forgot everything about labor and birth since your first baby? Or are you hoping to have a different experience than you did during your first labor and birth? Then this class is designed for you!

We will prepare both the pregnant person and their partner for the labor and birth of your next baby and even talk a little about welcoming a second baby into your family!

This class will include the following topics: Preparing for labor with specific exercises to facilitate birth; Facing fears about this birth; Trust and relaxation; Labor progression and pushing; Positions during labor to support good positioning of baby; Natural pain relief techniques and a review of medical pain management options; Baby-led breastfeeding immediately after the birth of your baby; Postpartum needs of mother and family; Understanding and supporting the feelings of siblings.

Upcoming Class: Saturday, January 24th 1:00 - 4:00 pm

Cost: $175 (cost per couple)

Birth Plan Office Hours

Are you in the midst of writing a birth plan for your upcoming birth? Has social media been talking to you about birth plans, but you don't know where to start? Has your healthcare provider asked about your birth plan, but when you googled it, there's too much information to sort through? If you answered yes to any of these questions, or if you generally want more information about birth plans, this is the time for you! I'll be hosting a drop-in session for folks to come in and chat about what a birth plan can look like, what you may consider including, and answer all your questions. As a full-spectrum doula who has experience at many of the birth settings around Chicago, I'd be happy to serve as a thought partner as you navigate all of the preferences you have for birth. I have pre-made virtual and paper templates for you to use, as well as evidence-based information on the benefits, risks, alternatives, and side effects of the choices that you may be asked to make in your labor.

Led by: Leila Walker, Full Spectrum Doula and Childbirth Educator


Upcoming Class: Sunday, February 22nd, 10:00 am- 1:00 pm (drop-in)

Sliding scale for attendance - $5 - $20 (paid at time of drop-in)

Why Choose Family Picnic

At Family Picnic, we're committed to providing exceptional childbirth education that sets us apart:

• Over 30 years of experience in birth education
• Evidence-based information you can trust
• Trained childbirth educators passionate about your success
• Invoices provided for insurance reimbursement
• Personalized experiences tailored to your needs
• Access to a certified lactation specialist
• Locally, family, and woman-owned business

We're invested in your journey and dedicated to helping you achieve the birth experience you desire. Our classes are more than just information—they're a supportive community where your concerns are heard and addressed.

Contact Us

Ready to take the next step in your pregnancy journey? We're excited to welcome you to our childbirth classes and support you through this transformative time. Our team at Family Picnic is here to answer your questions and help you find the perfect class for your needs.

Contact us now to learn more about our class schedules, pricing, and how we can help you prepare for the amazing adventure of parenthood. Let's work together to make your birth experience positive and empowering!

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