Class One, September 11, 2019   

Welcome, Cornell Benefits and Resources: Work/Life, Wellness, Insurance, Family/Medical Leaves, Grants, Workplace Flexibility, FSAP, Environmental Health & Safety, etc.

This session will provide an opportunity to get to know one another as well as connect you with Cornell resources that may be helpful to you throughout your pregnancy, birth, family leave, the shift to parenthood and for your return to work or studies. Key representatives will share information about their programs, highlight their services and are available to answer your questions.

Class Two, September 18, 2019

Healthy Pregnancy and Birth Choices Part 1: Pregnancy and Preparing for Birth

Community Partner: Kate Dimpfl

There are lots of great resources for pregnancy and birth here in Ithaca. This class will help narrow down what choices that resonate most with your needs. Part one will cover: local birth options, labor support, ways to find supportive resources and information, what’s happening in your body during pregnancy, staying healthy and comfortable with nutrition and movement, essential movements for balancing your pelvis for an easier delivery, and how to become an educated consumer and advocate for your care. You’ll have the opportunity to draw, laugh, learn, get to know other participants, and move your body. Please wear comfortable clothes. 

Class Three, September 25, 2019

Healthy Pregnancy and Birth Choices Part 2: Labor Choices and the Birth Plan

Community Partner: Kate Dimpfl

Once the labor process begins, there are still many options to choose from depending on your need/desire and that of your baby.  Part two will cover: how you will know you’re in labor, when to head to the hospital/have your care team arrive to your home, ways to cope with labor - both naturally and medically, birth plans, common things that can change your plans, and movement during birth. Again, you will have the chance to connect, laugh, learn, move, and dive deeper into your unique needs for this transition. You will leave these two workshops with lots of resources for further learning, a clear idea of what is available to you in this community, and the makings of a birth plan. **There are many handouts for both of these classes, so if you are unable to make one of the sessions, you can still access the resources.  

Class Four, October 16, 2019

Beyond the Birth Day: What to Expect in the Immediate Postpartum
Community Partner: Jess Evett

In this session, we will discuss what to expect during the first few weeks after your baby's birth. We will cover evidence-based information on infant sleep, newborn behavior, and maternal recovery from birth. This will be a lively and engaging class with a group discussion on the needs and expectations of both babies and mothers, including suggestions for how to make sure that everyone is getting the care and support that they need.

Class Five, October 23, 2019

Postpartum Relationship Changes
Community Partner: Jess Evett

The partner relationship is undoubtedly the biggest postpartum change that is overlooked, underestimated and under-addressed. Our culture’s expectation of life after the baby’s birth is a happily ever after story where parents are more in love than ever before. In reality, the truth is often very different. Please come join us for a realistic discussion on understanding the distinct needs of each parent, strengthening partner and parental bonds and how to keep communication flowing. While it is not required for partners to attend together, some portions of the session are formatted so that partners can talk and work together.

Class Six, October 30, 2019

Breastfeeding Part 1 - Breastfeeding Basics
Community Partner: Jeanette McCulloch 

Review the fundamentals of successful breastfeeding, including holding techniques, latching on, maximizing comfort, and the basics of pumping.

Class Seven, November 6, 2019

Breastfeeding Part 2 - Pumping with Success & Returning to Work as a Breastfeeding Mother
Community Partner: Jeanette McCulloch 

Explore the various pumps available, how to select a pump, when to begin pumping, and the fundamentals of pumping techniques. Learn about building up a freezer supply for the return to work, when to introduce the bottle, and tools for juggling breastfeeding and work. We will also review the Cornell policy on lactation accommodations, mother’s rooms and resources available.