It doesn’t matter if this is your first baby or your fourth. Parenthood is hard! It feels like we spend so much time just trying to figure out how to do things right, and it can quickly get overwhelming. After all, we want to make sure our child has the best life possible, and there is simply so much information out there. How do you even begin to sort through it all? This is where a parenting class is going to completely change your life. It’s just a matter of finding the one that matches you! If you could use a little help on your parenting journey but don’t quite know where to turn, here’s what you need to know about signing up for parenting classes in Bloomington, IL!

Okay, so first off, what exactly are parenting classes? Just like how there are so many different types of parenting styles, there are countless parenting classes to choose from. Each kind is going to address a different stage of your child’s life. Here are some of the many kinds you can choose from:
Birthing Classes: As you prepare to deliver your baby, birthing classes are extremely helpful! Most of the time, you can find them at hospitals and birthing centers. These are intensive classes available for both you and your partner. During these sessions, you are going to learn what you can expect throughout every stage of labor, different pain management techniques, and what to look for throughout the fourth trimester. They might also discuss general newborn care and breastfeeding. While most of these will cover every birthing style, you can find individualized sessions that walk you through hypnobirthing or an unmedicated birth.
Newborn Care Classes: These sessions are going to teach you everything you need to know about bringing home your baby. You’ll learn about safe sleep, feeding methods, diapering, bathing, and so much more. You can also often find classes for introducing siblings to your baby, protecting them around pets, or reminding grandparents of the basics of newborn care.
Positive Parenting classes: If you need help with your child once they start to gain some independence, Positive Parenting courses are for you! These sessions will teach you how to build up communication with your child while creating an environment where they can thrive. You are going to learn how to curb bad behaviors while building a healthy relationship with your child.
Co-Parenting Classes/Court-Mandated Sessions: For various reasons, sometimes parents will be required to take classes that will help them through difficult situations. These are often required for custody battles, though you might face them for other concerns as well. Often, these will be free sessions available through the state.

As a newborn photographer near Bloomington IL, I spend a lot of time getting to chat with my clients about all the best resources. If you are just starting out on your parenthood journey, here are the parenting classes near Bloomington, IL I always recommend!
1304 Franklin Ave, Normal, Illinois 61761
Carle Health offers locations all across Central Illinois that will get you completely prepared for welcoming your child. Their All About Baby sessions are available for residents, whether or not you are using Carle Health for your delivery. You can choose from options that will teach you and your support person about the different stages of labor, how to manage the pain, and how to be prepared for a c-section, even if that isn’t in the birth plans. Additionally, they offer classes on breastfeeding basics, pet safety, and newborn care. When you sign up, you will be able to choose between in-person and virtual, on-demand sessions.

6 Westport Court, Bloomington, Illinois 61704
If you have ever considered an unmedicated delivery, The Birth Center might just be the spot for you! This freestanding, midwife-owned practice has been empowering women to take their birth into their own hands since they first opened their doors in 205. They offer a comprehensive childbirth class that will make sure you feel prepared for pretty much any situation throughout your delivery. This will be a one-day intensive session that will last for 7.5 hours. You are going to learn about nutrition throughout pregnancy, tools for labor, birth expectations, and parenting a newborn. With their expert guidance, you are going to head into your delivery with total confidence over your body’s abilities!
127 North Williamsburg Drive, Bloomington, Illinois 61704
Living Alternative Pregnancy Resource Center is here to ensure every woman can feel completely prepared as they enter into parenthood. This center offers a wide range of resources, including pregnancy tests, OBGYN care, mental health support, and counseling. Their parenting classes are going to be a serious game-changer! You are going to be able to find options that will help you with pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care. Additionally, they offer informative sessions that will walk you through childhood development, discipline, communication, and age-appropriate care.

2200 E Washington Street, Bloomington, Illinois 61701
OSF Healthcare is another center that is going to get you prepared for every moment as you welcome your newest arrival. They encourage you to bring along your support person as you learn all of the basics. This center offers a labor crash course, breastfeeding classes, and newborn care classes. You will be able to get together in a group setting and learn from an expert. Once each session is done, you will be able to ask questions and ensure you feel completely ready. The classes are available for free with several monthly sessions, so you can find the one that fits perfectly into your schedule.
If you have been looking for a spot that will equip you for parenthood, I think you are really going to adore these parenting classes in Bloomington, IL. With all of these spots, you are going to feel ready for the early stages of motherhood!
Do you need more ways to make this time a bit more picture-perfect? Then I would love to chat! As a newborn photographer near Bloomington IL, I adore working with my clients to make sure they can honor each and every milestone. If you want to see if I’m the right photographer for your family, I would love to have a conversation! Send me a message today to find out more!