Welcoming a new life into the world is a transformative journey, and being well-prepared can make all the difference. The Nurturing Parenting® Prenatal Families Program offers a holistic approach to prenatal education, addressing not only the physical aspects of pregnancy but also the emotional and relational dynamics that come with it.
Program Overview
The Prenatal Families Program is designed to support expectant mothers and their partners through either:
- Group Sessions: 9 sessions, each lasting 2.5 hours.
- Home-Based Sessions: 18 sessions, each lasting 2 hours.
Each session incorporates 30 minutes dedicated to food and relaxation, fostering a nurturing environment for learning and connection.
Core Topics Covered
The program delves into a range of essential topics to equip parents with the knowledge and skills needed for a healthy pregnancy and beyond:
- Substance Use Awareness: Understanding the risks associated with prescription drugs, alcohol, and tobacco during pregnancy.
- Nutrition and Fetal Development: Emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition for healthy fetal growth and brain development.
- Stress Management: Exploring the effects of stress on the baby and techniques to manage it effectively.
- Body Image and Weight Management: Addressing concerns related to body image, weight gain, and dieting during pregnancy.
- Relationship Dynamics: Maintaining a healthy sexual relationship and understanding changes in partner dynamics.
- Nurturing Practices: Learning about the significance of nurturing touch, including infant massage, to promote bonding and emotional well-being.
Program Materials and Resources
Participants receive a comprehensive set of materials to support their learning journey:
- Parent Handbook: An illustrated guide detailing nurturing parenting techniques, stages of fetal development, and weekly home practice assignments.
- Facilitator Manuals: Resources for both group sessions and home visits, providing structured activities and discussions.
- Supplementary Materials: Including the Nurturing Book for Babies and Children, Infant Massage Handbook, and Red, White, and Bruises Booklet focusing on substance abuse prevention.
- Multimedia Resources: DVDs such as Babies & Booze Don’t Mix and I’m Only Doing This For Your Own Good to reinforce learning through visual content.
- Assessment Tools: Online assessments like the AAPI (Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory) to track progress and outcomes.
For a detailed list of materials, visit the Prenatal Families Program page.
Benefits of Participation
Engaging in the Prenatal Families Program offers numerous advantages:
- Enhanced Knowledge: Gain insights into prenatal care, childbirth, and early parenting strategies.
- Emotional Preparedness: Develop coping mechanisms for stress and emotional changes during pregnancy.
- Strengthened Relationships: Foster better communication and understanding between partners.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Encourage habits that promote the well-being of both mother and baby.
- Community Support: Connect with other expectant parents, building a supportive network.
Why Choose Nurturing Parenting
The Nurturing Parenting® Programs are evidence-based and have been recognized for their effectiveness in promoting positive parenting practices and preventing child abuse and neglect. Developed by Dr. Stephen J. Bavolek, these programs emphasize empathy, self-worth, and the importance of nurturing relationships. For more information on the philosophy and other programs offered, explore the Nurturing Parenting® website.
Getting Started
Embarking on the journey of parenthood is both exciting and challenging. The Prenatal Families Program is here to guide you every step of the way. To learn more or to enroll, visit the Prenatal Families Program page.
For additional insights into what to expect from prenatal education, read our blog post: What To Expect From a Prenatal Education Program.
Empower yourself with knowledge, nurture your relationships, and prepare for the beautiful journey of parenthood with the Nurturing Parenting® Prenatal Families Program.