The next course will be on Saturday 7th & 14th October, 10am until 3pm (a total of 10 hours. It will be held at Horwich Resource Centre. Places will be limited to 8 couples. To book, contact us.

This is a sample from a two day (Saturdays) intensive course (10 hours in total) The content will of course vary according to the wishes of parents.

First Saturday. (three couples attending)

We do not have a coffee break - Hot / cold drinks / biscuits / cake are freely available throughout the day - please just help yourself whenever you wish!

10.00am - Welcome / refreshments as above

10.15am - Getting to know you - introductions, ice-breaker!!!

10.25am - What do you want to know - you tell us, Compile list on Flip chart.

10.30am - A bit about our sessions and how we are different.

10.35am - Discussion about being pregnant, how do you feel? how can you make it even more special? Handout. What worries / concerns do you have? Activity - in your couples consider the next handout exploring your life now and how it will change after the birth.

11.00am - What to do with a baby once you have it! - a whole group activity which explores why babies cry and how this form of communication is naturally understood by parents.

11.30am - Breast or artificial feeding. the choice is yours - presentation on the real issues, the benefits of breastfeeding and the practicalities of artificially feeding safely. Demonstration of technique, using, doll, pillows and model breast. Demonstration of artificial feeding.

12.15am - Lunch - Bread / cold meats / cheese / salad / fresh fruit

12.30pm - Home or hospital birth - what do you think? pro's and con's and advice and tips about planning either. Packing a bag for hospital (visual demonstration and discussion) Handout. What do I need for birthing at home? Handout.

13.15pm - Pain, why is there a need to discuss it? what is its purpose? what do you need to know? Whole group activity exploring the concept of labour pain utilising flip chart / pens.

14.00pm - What is labour actually like? Why nature is so clever and how to succeed and feel in control and empowered !!!!! - on the floor, with mats / pillows and birthing balls. Practising the three stages of birth, coping strategies and birthing positions. short video on the marvellous pelvis!! Handout on using the birthing ball.

15.00pm - How has it been for you? three things to remember and take away.

Pregnancy2Parenting is a business consisting of four partners. Three of the partners are qualified and experienced midwives with expertise in all aspects of childbearing. The other partner has expertise as a paediatric. Together we provide independent support and information on pregnancy, childbirth and parenting.