What is Antenatal or Childbirth Education?
A Childbirth Educator provides quality pregnancy and childbirth (antenatal) education to expectant parents.
Childbirth, or antenatal, education has been the foundation of Parents Centres New Zealand Inc since our "conception" in 1952. Today we are by far the largest provider of antenatal education in the country, delivered across a staggering network of 50 Centres.Our exceptional team of Childbirth Educators (or CBE's) are professional, qualified and motivated to deliver value to expectant parents during the exciting and complex period prior to birth, equipping and empowering parents to have positive birth experiences and enabling them to begin their parenting journey in an informed manner.
Why should you attend Childbirth Education classes?
Attending Childbirth Education classes gives parents and support people the opportunity to meet other expectant parents and develop friendships with people who are in a similar life stage. Through a series of 6 -7 weekly classes the Childbirth Educator provides a range of information and facilitates discussion to support parents to make informed decisions about pregnancy, childbirth and the care of their newborn baby.
You will learn:
Important information on pregnancy, labour and birth, and parenting that is comprehensive and up-to-date. You will gain valuable practical skills and strategies for your pregnancy, childbirth and beyond.
Your Tutor/Childbirth Educator
Each of the Parents Centres Childbirth Educators who teach this programme have had comprehensive childbirth education training and are highly experienced in their field. As a trained education professional, the Childbirth Educator is responsible for assessing the class needs and determining the teaching techniques that will best meet the learning needs of the participants. Volunteers also assist in the planning, administration, facilitation and evaluation of courses.
Classes
All classes are held in small groups in an environment that is pleasant and comfortable for participants. Attendees gain valuable knowledge and develop friendships and support networks.
What to do now?
As early as possible:
- To take advantage of information and support offered by Parents Centres become a member now and at the same time book into a Childbirth Education class with your local Centre. Our classes are very popular so register early to avoid disappointment (you can visit a Centre near you to become a member and to book.)
- Register with a Lead Maternity Carer (LMC). This could be a midwife or specialist obstetrician. It can often help to talk to other people about their experiences and choices of LMC. Whoever you choose, make sure they are someone you feel comfortable with and someone who will try to support your choices for the type of birth you would like to have. Do your research and ask lots of questions.
- Continue taking folic acid and iodine supplements as advised by the Ministry of Health.Visit their website for further details on supplements, pregnancy nutrition and maternity services in New Zealand.
- Keep informed of the latest in pregnancy and parenting information - pick up a copy of Kiwiparent Magazine from your local Baby Factory store (once you join your local Parents Centre you will receive future issues of this magazine delivered directly to your door).
