Childbirth and Parenting Classes

Resuming In-Person Classes

While alternative eClass options are still available to patients, registration for in-person childbirth and parenting education classes has resumed.

As we learn more about COVID-19 and its transmission, we are adapting our classes in order to provide the safest environment to our families. When entering any Cleveland Clinic location, individuals will be screened for potential COVID-19 symptoms, including a temperature scan. In some locations, we use no-contact, hand-held thermal scanners. In other places, we use a thermal imaging system you walk through and might not even notice. You’ll be asked to sanitize your hands and be given a mask to wear the entire time you are in our facilities. You can also bring your own mask from home. Additionally, we’ve implemented proper spacing to account for social and physical distancing guidelines.

To view or register for an in-person or virtual childbirth and parenting education class, please visit: 

• Fairview Hospital
• Hillcrest Hospital 
• Akron General

Alternative birthing hospital virtual tour options are now available to patients at the following hospitals:

• Fairview Hospital
• Hillcrest Hospital

Fairview Hospital Classes

Preparing for Childbirth Classes

Prepared Childbirth

Designed for you and your partner, Prepared Childbirth discussion topics include:

• Process of labor and birth
• Supportive coaching techniques
• Use of birth ball, water therapy
• Comfort measures (including relaxation) for labor and birth
• Medical interventions
• Medicines
• Cesarean birth
• Postpartum care and emotional needs

Class Options:

• Childbirth Preparation – Weeknight Series
• Childbirth Preparation – Fast Forward Series

Please register for Prepared Childbirth classes around your fifth month of pregnancy. Begin classes by the seventh month and complete classes at least three to four weeks before your due date. Recommendations vary for mothers of multiples and high risk pregnancy.

• Register for this class

Childbirth Preparation - Natural Unmedicated

This four-week series is for couples who choose to have an unmedicated natural birth. Topics to be covered include the anatomy and physiology of childbirth, the role of pain in childbirth, and natural pain coping strategies. Class will also include a segment on medical interventions and postpartum care of mom. This class will include more time spent practicing relaxation, breathing, and coping techniques than our traditional childbirth preparation classes.

• Register for this class

Childbirth Preparation - Natural Un-medicated PLUS

This six-week series is for couples who choose to have an unmedicated natural birth. Topics to be covered include the anatomy and physiology of childbirth, the role of pain in childbirth, and natural pain coping strategies. Class will also include a segment on medical interventions and postpartum care of mom. This class will include more time spent practicing relaxation, breathing, and coping techniques than our traditional childbirth preparation classes.

Natural Unmediated PLUS also includes Baby Basics and Breastfeeding Preparation classes. A tour of the Birthing Center at Fairview Hospital is included as well.

• Register for this class

Birth Skills/Labor Rehearsal Class

This short, one-time class will focus on techniques for expectant moms and their labor partners to learn and use in labor.  This class will be helpful for couples who have time restrictions and are unable to attend a complete class series.  It may also be a nice addition for those couples who have already taken our "Just the Facts" childbirth class, but would like more time to practice labor coping techniques.

The class:

• Can help mothers in labor to respond positively to their contractions, providing better coping ability, improving pain management and empowering mothers for a better birthing experience.
• Labor partners will have a better understanding of how they can best support and guide their loved one through labor.
• Class participants will practice relaxation, breathing, positive positions, massage and gentle stretches, with explanations on how these techniques can be used in labor.

Couples who have already had a baby and are expecting again may like this class for a refresher.

• Register for this class

Preparing for Baby Classes

Breastfeeding Preparation

This class is for you and your partner to prepare to breastfeed your newborn and achieve the confidence you need to start a satisfying breastfeeding experience.

Class Topics:

• Why your support person is a key to your success
• Getting off to a good start
• How baby establishes your milk supply
• Positioning and latch-on
• Pumping and storing milk
• Preparation for returning to work
• Register for this class

Baby Basics – Hands On!

This class is for expectant and adoptive parents and grandparents. While you’re waiting for your new baby, learn about:

• Parental adjustments in first six weeks
• Soothing a fussy baby
• Newborn reflexes and abilities
• Bathing, diapering and dressing baby
• Establishing flexible day and night routines
• Newborn’s emotional needs
• Infant safety

Please bring a baby towel and baby washcloth.

• Register for this class

Preparing the Family

Grandparenting Today

Join a lively discussion for grandparents-to-be and new grandparents about the changes in birthing and infant care practices.

Class topics include:

• Importance of grandparenting
• Changes in childbirth practices
• Updates on baby care recommendations
• Communication with new parents
• Long distance grandparenting
• Most current info on sleep safety and SIDS prevention
• Infant nutrition recommendations

This is a one-time class.

• Register for this class

Boot Camp for New Dads

New and expectant dads will be taught by the experts – veteran dads:

• How to support mom and form a parenting team
• How to bond with baby
• The best way to hold, feed, cuddle your new baby
• Child safety and child abuse prevention tips
• The importance of maintaining a “father” in the family

New dads will feel free to ask any questions of interest to them in a supportive environment.

• Register for this class

Infant and Child Safety

CPR for Infant and Child

As a parent, grandparent, or babysitter, you could be the first person to administer care to your child in an emergency. You will learn the life saving techniques listed below according to the American Heart Association criteria and practice on mannequins:

• Techniques for evaluating and eliminating choking
• How to determine if CPR is needed and how to perform it
• Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
• Prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

This class is a Family and Friends CPR class through the American Heart Association and is not a certifying or credentialing course.

• Register for this class

Hillcrest Hospital Classes

Preparing for Childbirth Classes

Birth E-Class

Online Birth Preparation Class designed for those unable to attend a traditional or private birthing class. Please call 440.312.4647 for more information.

Birth Skills

This short, one-time class will focus on techniques for expectant moms and their support person to use in labor. This class is a perfect addition to the Just the Facts or Fast Track classes for those who would like additional relaxation and breathing techniques. This class would also be a great refresher class for those expecting their next child.

Class participants will practice relaxation, breathing, positive positions, massage and gentle stretches, and understand how these techniques can be used in labor.

• Register for this class

HypnoBirthing

HypnoBirthing is a unique method of childbirth education that teaches women/couples how to work with their birthing bodies using:

• Hypnosis, imagery and relaxation
• Stress management techniques
• Releasing the fear and tension which accompany pain
• Breathing techniques synchronized for birthing
• Supportive coaching methods
• Discussion of interventions and medications
• Hospital tour included.

This class teaches you that in the absence of fear and tension, severe discomfort does not have to be a natural accompaniment of the birthing process. This class can be taken whether you are planning a natural childbirth or using medication at the time of birth.

• Register for this class

Holistic Services

Reiki, Guided Imagery, and Hypnotherapy are available in a private setting. Please call 440.312.4647 for more information.

Mind.Body.Baby

Looking for an alternative approach to childbirth? Learn how to connect your body to your baby during pregnancy. Practice techniques to respond to labor positively and slowly, without fear and identify your expectations of labor pain, as much of it depends on you.

• Register for this class

Private Childbirth Preparation

Private classes are available for Cesarean Birth, Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC), multiples, or childbirth preparation. Other circumstances are also considered upon request and at the availability of the instructor. Please call 440.312.4647 for more information.

Understanding Birth

This class is designed for you and your support person to attend. Understanding Birth discussion topics include:

• Process of labor and birth
• Supportive coaching techniques
• Use of birth ball, water therapy
• Comfort measures (including relaxation) for labor and birth
• Medical interventions
• Medicines
• Cesarean birth
• Postpartum care and emotional needs

Class Options:

• Understanding Birth Series: Comprehensive labor preparation four week series class.
• Understanding Birth Plus Series: Comprehensive labor preparation six week series class including Baby Basics and Breastfeeding Basics.
• Understanding Birth Just the Facts: Condensed, one day comprehensive birth preparation class designed for challenging schedules. Less time spent on relaxation and breathing techniques.
• Understanding Birth Fast Track: Condensed, two day comprehensive birth preparation class designed for challenging schedules. Less time spent on relaxation and breathing techniques.

Recommendations for classes vary for mothers of multiples and high risk pregnancy.

• Register for this class

Preparing for Baby Classes

Adoptive and Foster Family Baby Basics

Specialized baby care preparation class for adoptive and foster families. While you're preparing for your new baby, learn about:

• Adjustments in first six weeks
• Soothing a fussy baby
• Newborn reflexes and abilities
• Feeding, bathing, diapering and dressing your baby
• Establishing flexible day and night routines
• Newborn's emotional needs
• Register for this class

Baby Basics

While you're preparing for your new baby, learn the basics:

• Parental adjustments in first six weeks
• Soothing a fussy baby
• Newborn reflexes and abilities
• Bathing, diapering and dressing your baby
• Establishing flexible day and night routines
• Newborn's emotional needs
• Register for this class

Boot Camp for New Dads

New and expectant dads will be taught by the experts – veteran dads:

• How to form a parenting team
• How to bond with baby
• The best way to hold, feed, cuddle your new baby
• Child safety and child abuse prevention tips

New dads will feel free to ask any questions of interest to them in a supportive environment.

• Register for this class

Breastfeeding Basics

This class is for you and your partner to prepare to breastfeed your newborn and achieve the confidence you need to start a satisfying breastfeeding experience.

Class Topics:

• Why your support person is a key to your success
• Getting off to a good start
• How baby establishes your milk supply
• Positioning and latch-on
• Pumping and storing milk
• Preparation for returning to work
• Register for this class

Night with a Pediatrician and Hospital Tour

Attend a free Q&A session with a pediatrician to find out what to expect for your new baby during your stay at the hospital. Parents are welcome to bring questions during this relaxed learning opportunity.

• Register for this class

Preparing the Family Classes

Sibling Celebration

Taking on the new role as big brother or sister is a big change! Sibling Celebration prepares children for the arrival of their new sibling and includes discussion topics:

• How to hold and care for the new baby
• What to expect at the hospital
• Changes after the baby arrives

This class is recommended for children ages three to nine. A tour of the Family Maternity Center at Hillcrest Hospital is included.

• Register for this class

Grandparenting Today

Join a lively discussion for grandparents-to-be about the changes in birthing and infant care practices. Class topics include:

• Role of grandparenting and how to support the new family
• Updates on childbirth practices and baby care recommendations
• Long distance grandparenting
• Infant nutrition recommendations
• Infant safety

A tour of the Family Maternity Center at Hillcrest Hospital is included.

• Register for this class

Infant and Child Safety Classes

Sitter School

Sitter School is an opportunity for pre-teens and teenagers, ages 11 to 15, to become confident and capable babysitters. Students receive a certificate of completion at the end of class.

Class topics include:

• Infant and childcare
• Choosing appropriate toys
• Accident prevention and emergency preparation
• Life-saving techniques from the American Heart Association (AHA) including CPR
• Register for this class

CPR for Infant and Child

As a parent, grandparent, or babysitter, you could be the first person to administer care to a child in an emergency. You will learn the life saving techniques listed below according to the American Heart Association criteria and practice on mannequins:

• Techniques for evaluating and eliminating choking
• How to determine if CPR is needed and how to perform it
• Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
• Prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

This class is a Family and Friends CPR class through the American Heart Association and is not a certifying or credentialing course.

• Register for this class

Keeping Your Baby Safe

Come and learn the steps to keeping your baby safe in the car and at home. This is a beneficial class to follow CPR for Infant and Child class.

Class topics include:

• Car Safety
• Safe Baby Care
• Safety Products
• Home Safety
• Emergency Preparedness
• Register for this class

Akron General Classes

Preparing for Childbirth

Childbirth Preparation

Learn valuable breathing based techniques for relaxation, breathing during labor, managing discomfort, timing contractions and how your coach can play a role during labor. This series of classes can provide you with the basics on physical and emotional changes that occur during pregnancy, as well as what to expect during the childbirth process itself.

Class Options:

• Four-week series
• Condensed two-session weekend series

A tour of Akron General's New Life Center is included.

• Register for this class

“Just the Facts” Express Class

One day, condensed, complete childbirth series designed for those with challenging schedules. Learn how to relax, breathe during labor, manage discomfort and time contractions. (Less time spent on the relaxation and breathing than the class series).

A tour of Akron General's New Life Center is included.

• Register for this class

Preparing for Baby

Before Baby® - Free Health Fair

Come to Before Baby, a free maternity health fair at Cleveland Clinic Akron General. Attend one of our mini-seminars about Baby Friendly, visit various information booths, register for free gifts and enjoy refreshments. Free parking. We offer this event two times a year – May and November.

A tour of Akron General's New Life Center is included.

• Register for this class

Breastfeeding 101

Prepare yourself to breastfeed, and learn how to make sure you have an easy and successful experience. Husband and partners welcome to attend.

• Register for this class

Breastfeeding: Beyond the First Six Weeks

Preparing to return to work and continue breastfeeding? Research shows that you have made a wise choice! Breastfeeding your baby beyond the first six weeks is essential for your baby’s health, growth and development. A qualified instructor will give you the tools and practical resources to help when away from baby. This class includes topics such as breastfeeding laws, how to choose the right pump, pumping and breast milk storage and returning to work. It is recommended that this class be taken after the birth of your baby to prepare yourself to return to work.

• Register for this class

Boot Camp for New Dads

New and expectant dads will be taught by the experts – veteran dads:

• How to support mom and form a parenting team
• How to bond with baby
• The best way to hold, feed, cuddle your new baby
• Child safety and child abuse prevention tips
• The importance of maintaining a “father” in the family

New dads will feel free to ask any questions of interest to them in a supportive environment.

• Register for this class

Baby Care for Beginners - A Guide to the First Six Weeks

Whether you are brand new to babies or just need to “brush-up” on the basics, this class is recommended for expectant parents, grandparents or anyone else who will be taking care of a newborn. “Hands-on” practice will include feeding, bathing, diapering, swaddling and handling/holding. Other topics such as normal newborn behaviors, safety and when to call the doctor will be included..

• Register for this class

Preparing the Family Classes

Grandparent Information

In this class, prospective grandparents will learn about changes in childbirth, updates in infant care, communicating in the extended family, tips on baby care and safety, and the importance of being a grandparent. A tour of Akron General’s New Life Center is included.

Infant and Child Safety Classes

Infant CPR and Safety

Every parent should know what to do in case of an emergency. This one-session basic class will give you the confidence and security to act quickly and effectively. A certified instructor provides you with the latest education in this essential course. Class is not a certification.

• Register for this class

Sibling Celebration at Cleveland Clinic Akron General

This class is most beneficial for children up to 10 years of age, and their families, to prepare them for the arrival of their new sibling. Please have your child bring a doll or stuffed animal to class.

Class topics include:

• How to hold and care for the new baby
• What to expect at the hospital
• Changes after the baby arrives

Please register the name of the caregiver bringing the child(ren) to class. A tour of Akron General’s New Life Center is included.

• Register for this class

Tour Our Birthing Hospitals

Picking a hospital for the birth of your child is not a zero to five star rating decision. There are so many more factors to keep in mind. Where is the hospital related to us on a map? Does this hospital offer an unmedicated birth experience? Is there a NICU there in case my baby needs one? These are all very important questions that are probably going through your head. Here are our answers.

We have three birthing hospitals — Fairview Hospital on the West Side of Cleveland, Akron General to the South and Hillcrest Hospital on the East Side of Cleveland. In high-risk situations, you could also have your baby at Cleveland Clinic’s main campus. All three hospitals have a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

For the health and safety of our expectant families, we are temporarily suspending all in-person birthing hospital tours through May 31, 2020. The following alternative virtual tour options are now available to patients:

• Schedule my virtual tour at Fairview Hospital
• Schedule my virtual tour at Hillcrest Hospital

* Cleveland Clinic Akron General does not currently have a virtual birthing hospital tour offering. For more information about Akron General’s birthing services, please call 330.344.2229.