Baby Care Basics

Location

About this event

Preparing for your baby's arrival? Our free Baby Care Basics class is designed to help new parents feel confident and prepared to care for their newborn from day one. We understand that caring for a newborn can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. That's why our experienced instructors will guide you through essential baby care skills in a supportive, hands-on learning environment.

What you'll learn in this baby care class

Our comprehensive Baby Care Basics class covers all the essential newborn care skills you'll need, including:

• Baby bathing techniques: Safe and gentle ways to bathe your newborn
• Diapering skills: Proper diaper changing techniques and tips
• Swaddling methods: How to safely swaddle your baby for comfort and sleep
• Safe sleep practices: Guidelines to keep your baby safe while sleeping
• Car seat safety: Proper installation and usage of infant car seats
• Feeding basics: Bottle feeding techniques and positioning
• Soothing techniques: Ways to comfort and calm your baby
• Recognizing baby cues: Understanding what your baby is trying to tell you
• Basic infant safety: Creating a safe environment for your newborn

Who should attend this newborn care class

This class is perfect for:

• First-time parents who want hands-on newborn care training
• Expectant mothers at 32 weeks of pregnancy and beyond
• Parents who want a refresher on baby care basics
• Grandparents and family members who will help care for the baby
• Anyone who will be caring for a newborn

Partners and support people are strongly encouraged to attend. When both parents learn these essential skills together, it builds confidence and creates a supportive team approach to newborn care.

Class format and experience

Why take a baby care class?

Learning proper newborn care techniques before your baby arrives offers many benefits:

• Builds confidence: Feel prepared and capable when your baby comes home
• Reduces anxiety: Knowledge helps ease common new parent worries
• Promotes safety: Learn evidence-based safe practices for infant care
• Strengthens partnership: Both parents learn together, creating a unified approach
• Practical skills: Hands-on practice before the real thing

How to register for Baby Care Basics

Ready to feel confident about caring for your newborn? Registration is simple:

• Register Online or Call: (815) 935-7511

Space in our classes fills up quickly, so we recommend registering early to secure your spot.

Why choose Riverside Healthcare for childbirth education?

At Riverside Healthcare's Family Birthing Center, we're committed to supporting new families throughout their pregnancy and parenting journey. Our experienced instructors understand the unique needs of new parents and provide practical, evidence-based education in a warm, supportive environment.

We believe that informed, prepared parents are more confident parents. Our baby care classes complement the excellent obstetric and pediatric care you'll receive at Riverside Healthcare.

Prepare for parenthood with confidence

Taking a baby care basics class is one of the best investments you can make in your parenting journey. You'll leave our class feeling prepared, confident, and excited to welcome your little one home.

Additional childbirth education classes

Looking for more pregnancy and parenting education? Riverside Healthcare offers a complete range of childbirth education classes, including:

• Prenatal breastfeeding classes
• Childbirth preparation courses
• Hospital tours
• Sibling preparation classes

What to bring to class

Come comfortable and ready to learn! We provide all the materials and demonstration items needed for the class. Just bring:

• A notebook or phone for taking notes
• Any specific questions you'd like to ask
• Your partner or support person
• Comfortable clothing for participating in hands-on activities