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Classes and Events
Ongoing Classes
BREASTFEEDING CLASSES /SUPPORT
Baby & Me Group - Mundelein
A relaxed cafe for breastfeeding parents and babies. Information combined with a comfortable atmosphere of sharing. Dad's welcome!
Contact: Jeanne Cyngus, IBCLC, RLC
Cygnus Lactation Services
402 N Seymour Ave, Mundelein, IL
847-837-4091
www.breastfeedingusa.org/content/article/find-breastfeeding-counselor
www.cygnuslactation.com/calendar.html
Birth Basics: Preparing the Expectant Couple for Labor and Childbirth
Join doula and childbirth educator Natalie Evans for this hands-on workshop that explores the ins and outs of labor. Learn how labor begins (and how to know when you're really in labor!), comfort measures, and hands-on techniques for partners to help throughout labor and birth.
Pre-registration is required. Please check our website or call for current class times. Meets bi-monthly.
Bloom Yoga Studio
4663 N Rockwell, Chicago IL
773-463-YOGA
www.bloomyogastudio.com
Breastfeeding Basics - Mundelein
Preparation for breastfeeding. Gives a wide-range of information on what to expect, and solutions to common difficulties. Helps both mother and baby get off to the best possible start!
Contact: Jeanne Cyngus, IBCLC, RLC
Cygnus Lactation Services
402 N Seymour Ave, Mundelein, IL
847-837-4091
www.CygnusLactation.com
Breastfeeding Class (non-traditional) - Algonguin
We will cover: Getting mother and baby together, Triggering your baby’s and your own instincts, Your partner as your ally, Laid-back breastfeeding, Knowing your baby is getting enough, Trusting yourself, trusting your baby
Meeting Bi-monthly
Contact us for times.
To register: www.bbbabies.org/classes/
Breastfeeding Clinic (Mom & Baby)
Chicago
Get your breastfeeding questions answered by a caring, compassionate Board Certified Lactation Consultant at our drop-in clinic.
At the clinic, you can:
• get your pressing breastfeeding questions answered
• receive hands-on support with positioning and latch
• weigh your baby with an accurate medical -grade scale
• get reassurance that you & your baby are on track
• get strategies for your return-to-work plan
Cost: $40 or $30 for Birthways Members (25% discount)
Schedule: Fridays, 10a - noon
Registration: The clinic can serve up to six families each week. Please sign up for the appropriate clinic at www.birthwaysinc.com. No drop-ins, please.
Birthways also offers in-home lactation consultations, breastfeeding warmline support, and postpartum doula care to support families after their babies’ arrival.
Breastfeeding 101: For Expectant Parents - Chicago
Pre-Registration Required: $35 Per Couple
Breastfeeding may come naturally, but getting it right is not always easy. Join us for this informative workshop and let our Board Certified, Lactation Consultant, help you get off to the right start.
This class will provide you with all of the information needed to help you make decisions about breastfeeding that are right for you and your baby. Topics include: the nutritional benefits of breastfeeding; what to expect; how much baby will need; navigating the first days; what to do when problems arise; how to wean...
Consultant: Patricia Drazin, IBCLC
BellyBum Boutique - Chicago
773-868-0944
www.bellybumboutique.com
Breastfeeding 101 Class (prenatal)
Chicago
Get the knowledge and skills you need to get breastfeeding off to a good start and meet your long-term breastfeeding goals. This 2-hour class, led by a board certified lactation consultant, is designed to teach you about you and your baby’s anatomy, reflexes, and hard wiring, so that you can best support baby’s natural instincts to nurse. Learn about the first feeding, strategies for common challenges, and resources for extra help if you need it.
Instructor: Alison Velasco, IBCLC
Cost: $50 for a two hour class or $37.50 for Birthways Members (25% discount)
Class schedule: Regularly scheduled Mondays from 6p-8p (may vary due to holidays or instructor availability; please see the registration page for current schedule)
To register: Pre-registration is required. Online registration available at www.birthwaysinc.com
Breastfeeding Support - Chicago
Do you have questions about breastfeeding... What can you eat? Are there foods that you must avoid? Can you drink? Must you pump? What about medications-prescription and over the counter? How will/do I know that my baby is getting enough? Does it hurt? How do I go back to work? Unforeseen complications and don't know what to do...
Come and meet and talk with an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant Patricia Drazin, IBCLC.
$25 One-on-One 1/2 hour Consultation.
By appointment only.
24 hour advanced registration required.
Call to register.
BellyBum Boutique - Chicago
773-868-0944
www.bellybumboutique.com
Breastfeeding Supprt Group - Evanston
Patricia Berg Drazin IBCLC is hosting a breastfeeding support group. Mothers are welcome to come with questions or concerns. They are also welcome to come just to get together with other breastfeeding mothers. A scale will be available for those mothers wishing to weigh their little ones.
Att "Gather" 602 Davis Street in Evanston every Friday from 11- 1 pm.
To register go to:www.meetatgather.com or call 847-859-2312
Breastfeeding Support Group - Evergreen Park
We are now a designated Baby Friendly Hospital, we received our certification in December 2012, we worked on this project for five years and will continue to work to maintain it !!
We continue to offer a weekly Breastfeeding Support Group for Moms and Babies
every Wednesday 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, located in our New West Pavilion 8th floor Room 8C/8536
We also added a monthly evening Breastfeeding Support group, Wednesdays, 7;00 pm to 8:00 pm,
call for dates, Lactation Office 708-229-5418
Women's Healthcare Affiliates
Little Company of Mary
7th Floor Solarium
2800 W 95th St., Evergreen Park, IL
708-229-5418
La Leche League Monthly Meetings
Breastfeeding is a simple and natural process, but you may need support and information. At our monthly meetings, mothers and mothers-to-be share questions, concerns and the joys and benefits of breastfeeding. Free phone support available between meetings.
For additional LLL leader listings in Illinois, check out the LLL website at http://www.llli.org/web/illinois.html
Or find us on facebook at La Leche League of Evanston-Wilmette, IL, or our neighboring group North Shore La Leche League
Morning Meetings:
1st Wed. each Month 9:30 am
Skokie Valley Baptist Church
1050 Skokie Blvd., Wilmette
Evening Meetings:
2nd Thurs. each month 7:00 pm
St. Francis Hospital - South Conf. Room
355 Ridge Ave., Evanston
Contact: Elaine, Emily, Alison, or Jessica: 847-440-4977; (tambien habla espanol Alison: 847-594-2489 ) or email us at: lll.evwi@gmail.com
Lincoln Park
Check web site for details.
www.lalecheleaguelincolnpark.org
Working and Breastfeeding - Algonguin
We will cover; Staying connected while you’re away, Logistics of expressing and storing your milk, Educating your baby’s care giver, Navigating your way with your company, Making your plan work
Meeting Bi-monthly
Contact us for times.
To register: www.bbbabies.org/classes/
CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION
Brio Birth Childbirth Class
12 week class taught by Certified Brio Instructor Chanda Szczeblowski CBRE.
Wednesday evenings 7:00- 9:15 pm
West Suburban Midwife Associates, Ltd
715 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301
Call 773-428-7572 to register or for more information or see us at www.westsubmidwives.com
Childbirth Education
Every birthing family is unique! Celebrate Birth is based on the belief that that there is no right or wrong way to have a baby. Our series teaches women and their partners the physiology of birth, so that you can find the best way to labor for your birth. Birth partners are taught how to follow the cues of the laboring mother, and help support her instinctual approaches to labor. Our classes cover:
• Understanding Prenatal Care
• Stages of Labor
• Recognizing Labor Patterns
• Pushing: The Second Stage
Comfort Measures for the Stages of Labor
• Understanding ‘Normal’ and Complications
• Working with Your Doctor or Midwife: Advocacy Issues and Birth Plans
• Breastfeeding and Newborn Care
(Our weekend series cover newborn care and breastfeeding in less depth, and uses fewer videos.)
Fees
Our 8 week series is $300 per couple (mom and birthing partner). Classes are offered on Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8:30pm in our Lakeview office.
Our weekend intensive is $250 per couple (mom and birthing partner). Classes cover 2 days; Saturday and Sunday from 9am-3pm in our Lakeview office.
Visit our web site at www.birthwaysinc.com,
e-mail us at childbirthclasses@birthwaysinc.com, or call 888.506.0607 for more information.
Childbirth Preparation Class
This class is for couples seeking a group or private class for childbirth and labor preparation. This is a lecture and discussion class covering clinical aspects of the labor and birth process and alternative comfort measures. This class covers: The stages of labor, interventions, traditional and alternative birth plans, comfort measures and much more.
Pre-register for class or call for private lesson
time will be arranged
globalyoga@sbcglobal.net
See www.globalyogacenter.com for details, 773-719-6227
Childbirth Preparation Class: Childbirth Education and Breastfeeding Basics
In this 9-week workshop, doula and childbirth educator Natalie Evans provides resources and support to confidently and consciously prepare for birth and your transition to parenthood. Each week's class focuses on a topic such as comfort measures for labor, addressing fears and concerns, and how to care for your beautiful newborn. Included in this series is our comprehensive Breastfeeding Basics class.
Appropriate at 20 weeks and beyond. Pre-registration is required. Please check our website or call for current class times
Bloom Yoga Studio
4663 N Rockwell, Chicago IL
Couples Class to Prepare for Labor and Birth
This class is scheduled one time a month or in your home as a private lesson. Couples have an opportunity to practice comfort positions for labor and birth, pushing positions and breathing and relaxation techniques. The class assits partners how to coach and give labor support.
Group Classes at Soulistic Studio and Spa,
805 N. Milwaukee Av,e Second Floor, Chicago, Il
Private sessions can be at the studio or in your home. Doula Services available as well.
globalyoga@sbcglobal.net
www.globalyogacenter.com
Location: Yoga Studio or in your home
Call for dates and times: 773-719-6227
Hypnobabies Childbirth Education - Naperville
Hypnobabies is a very successful 6 week (3 hrs each) complete childbirth education course using Gerald Kein's Painless Childbirth techniques instead of simple relaxation, breathing or guided imagery. Hypnobabies teach students to create and use Hypno-anesthesia. Class fees include all materials.
Universal Spirit Yoga Studio, 408 W. 5th Ave, Naperville, IL
Call or email for dates & times.
(309) 531-3309
christy@heartofamericahypnobabies.com
http://heartofamericahypnobabies.com
Hypnobabies Hypnosis Childbirth Classes - Hyde Park
A 6 week, complete childbirth preparation course. Couples learn about the stages of birth, prenatal nutrition and exercises, and powerful "Eyes Open" childbirth hypnosis, for shorter, easier and more comfortable natural births. Helping couples make childbirth the joyful experience it was meant to be!
Saturdays - Every 6 weeks, starting October 1st, 2011 Call for exact times & dates.
Hyde Park, just off Lakeshore Drive, Chicago
Contact/Registration Information:
Paige Clark
423-208-8887
hypnobabieswithpaige.com
HypnoBirthing Childbirth Education Class - Chicago
HypnoBirthing, is a complete childbirth education class, emphasizing physiological birth, methods of deep relaxation, pre-birth parenting and the consciousness of the pre-born baby. HypnoBirthing mothers learn to use their natural instincts to bring about a safer, easier, more comfortable birthing.
Serenity Health & Wellness, 600 W. Fulton #304, Chicago
Call for dates and times: (847) 894-7737
Ohana Childbirth and ParentPrep Class - Evanston
Our Childbirth and ParentPrep classes give you the knowledge you need to feel confident in your birth and parenting choices, while facilitating connections with other parents. The class covers natural and medical pain management techniques as well as newborn care.
Jocelyn Alt, Founder / Doula /
Childbirth Educator
Ohana
www.ohanaparents.com
ohana@ohanaparents.com
872-BABY-234 (872-222-9234)
Rock Your Postpartum (Creating your individual postpartum plan)
Postpartum rituals and customs from around the world. How to use natural methods for boosting energy and battling the baby blues. Ideas, suggestions and lists for setting up your own personalized postpartum plan.
Deb Pocica
Shiatsu for Fertility
Learn to identify patterns and pathology causing infertility and self-shiatsu routines to address common imbalances, relieve stress, increase vitality and complement fertility treatments. These shiatsu routines are great for self-care and to share with family, friends and clients.
Zen Shiatsu Chicago
825A Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL
Contact: 847-864-1130
www.zenshiatsuchicago.org/courses/
Shiatsu for Labor and Postpartum Support
Shiatsu supports mother and baby through the natural process of birth, relieving pain, promoting relaxation, and stimulating postpartum healing. Learn techniques to assist labor and address issues such as healing for vaginal and c-section deliveries, lactation, exhaustion, constipation and depression.
Zen Shiatsu Chicago
825A Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL
Contact: 847-864-1130
http://www.zenshiatsuchicago.org/courses/
shiatsu_for_labor_and_postpartum_support/
Shiatsu for Pregnancy: for Birth Professionals and Expectant Parents
Learn simple, effective shiatsu massage, acupressure, and stretching techniques for treating common discomforts of pregnancy. Understand the changes occurring in a pregnant woman's body from the perspective of shiatsu meridian theory and Chinese Medicine. No previous experience necessary!
Also need pregnant practice bodies for demonstration purposes. Great for couples.
Zen Shiatsu Chicago
825A Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL
847-864-1130
http://www.zenshiatsuchicago.org/courses/
INFANT MASSAGE
Classes come and go. If you can't find what you are looking for please call or email us at 847-733-8050 or bestbirth@birthlink.com for additional resources.
PARENT EDUCATION / SUPPORT
Babies Only
A class for newborns through eight months. Song activities are designed to facilitate an active support for infants' musical growth and the creation of a special bond between parent and child through music. This class incorporates activities such as babbling with baby, finger plays, infant massage, large movement and the use of partners and mirrors.
LAKEVIEW-Studio & Main Office
3717 N. Ravenswood Ave. #212
Chicago, IL
773-929-4MMM (4666)
www.merrymusicmakers.net/classes.htm
Chicago Area Homeopathy Study Group with Dr. Richard Ezgur
Free homeopathy study group which teaches what homeopathy is, how it works, and to treat yourself & family for common health problems (colds, flus, first aid, etc.) using homeoapthic remedies.
RSVP: dre@progressivechiropractic.com
The second Tuesday of each month (Sept. - Dec), 7:30 pm
Progressive Chiropractic Wellness Center
2835 N Sheffield Ave #411
Chicago IL 60657
773-525-9355
www.progressivechiropractic.com
Getting to Know Your Baby
A group for first time parents and their infants (birth to six months). Meet other new parents, learn about infant development during the first year, and share the joys and challenges of being a new parent. Led by Pam Frankel, M.S., Child Development Specialist.
Tuesdays, 1:00 - 2:30 PM. A new 3 week group begins every month. Please call for start dates and information.
Baby & Me Room at Family Network Parent Child Center
330 Laurel Avenue
Highland Park, IL 60035
847-433-0377
How & Why to Cloth Diaper Your Baby
Learn the environmental reasons and health benefits, as well as, what new styles of diapers are available. See for yourself that these are not your grandmother's cloth diapers and that cloth diapering is easy and fun. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
Instructor: Lisa Joy Rosing, Cloth Diapering Specialist
Check website for actual dates & times.
Bellybum Boutique
4347 N. Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL
773-868-0944
www.bellybumboutique.com
Mommies-to-Be Support Group - Hinsdale
Meet with a counselor who specializes in new mothers’ issues. Listen, and share with other pregnant women who are feeling similar emotions. Learn ways to improve your mood and get emotions under control.
Cost: $20/session
Group limited to 5.
Please call for dates and times.
15 Spiinning Wheel Road, Suite 417, Hinsdale, IL
Joy Davy, MS, LCPC, NCC, www.joydavy.com Please call 630-935-7915 or email joydavy@joydavy.com for more information.
NPN Developmental Differences Support Group
Come meet other parents who are working hard to meet the special needs of their children. Parents of kids with all types of developmental differences or disabilities welcome (sensory processing disorder, autism, ADD/ADHD, PDD-NOS, mixed receptive-expressive language disorder, Down Syndrome, physical disabilities, etc.). NPN Membership Encouraged.
Free! R.S.V.P. 48 hours prior.
Third Tuesday of every month, 7:00-8:30 pm
Verify dates & times on web site.
Bellybum Boutique
4347 N. Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL
773-868-0944
www.bellybumboutique.com
Parent/Child Drop-In Center
An informal place to connect, share ideas, and relax with other parents. For families with children from birth to three years old. Enjoy a comfortable lounge, expert speakers, and enriching activities for your child. Come in for a free visit!
Tuesdays - Fridays, 9:30 - 11:30 AM
Family Network Parent Child Center
330 Laurel Avenue
Highland Park, IL 60035
847-433-0377
PRENATAL / POSTPARTUM EXERCISE
Many personal trainers offer this service.
No member listings at this time. Feel free to call or email us at 847-733-8050 or bestbirth@birthlink.com for resources.
PRENATAL / POSTPARTUM YOGA
Baby and Me Yoga
This class focuses on restoring balance and health to the postpartum body through asanas (postures), relaxation and breathing techniques. You will learn infant massage, songs and games, as well as share time with other moms. (Appropriate for 4 weeks to crawlers)
Tuesdays, 9:30 - 10:30 am
Sweet Pea's Studio
3717 N Ravenswood, #213
Chicago IL
773-248-YOGA (9642)
Global Yoga Prenatal Yoga with Rhonda Kantor, CCE
This prenatal yoga class is for all levels of students and helps prepare women for a healthy pregnancy and birth experience. The class focuses on flexibility, strength, traditional hatha yoga poses, breathing and relaxation techniques. Some flow based yoga included as well.
Tuesdays, 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Saturdays, 9:30 - 10:45 AM
Soulistic Studio and Spa
805 N. Milwaukee Ave Second Floor Chicago, IL
Contact: 773-719-6227
globalyoga@sbcglobal.net
See www.globalyogacenter.com for details
Mom and Baby Yoga with Rhonda Kantor, CCE - Chicago
This class is for mom's and infants through one year and for all levels of students. This class focuses on strengthening after pregnancy and birth. Come with or without your baby/toddler, bring toys as needed, drop in class, partners and pregnant women are welcome and poses can be modified, Start date: Monday Aug 16, 2010.
Mondays, 6:30 - 7:30 PM
Soulistic Studio and Spa
805 N. Milwaukee Ave Second Floor, Chicago, Il
Contact: 773-719-6227
globalyoga@sbcglobal.net
See www.globalyogacenter.com for details
Mom & Baby Yoga - Chicago
Connect with other new moms and bond with your baby as you practice fun, modified yoga poses. Poses in this class engage baby while helping you recover from birth and the strains of carrying and nursing a newborn.
Please check our website or call for current class times
Bloom Yoga Studio
4663 N Rockwell, Chicago IL
Prenatal Yoga - Chicago
Prepare for birth and help alleviate pregnancy-related discomforts with gentle yoga and breathing exercises. Connect with other pregnant women as you practice poses that build strength and softness simultaneously in preparation for labor. Appropriate at all stages of pregnancy.
Please check our website or call for current class times
Bloom Yoga Studio
4663 N Rockwell, Chicago IL
Prenatal Yoga - Chicago
Yoga teaches strength and stamina, as well as concentration and breath control, all of which are invaluable tools during labor and birth. It can be beneficial for every stage of pregnancy and it gives pregnant women tools for self-awareness and relaxation.
Tuesdays, 5:30 - 7:00 pm
Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Saturdays, 9:30 - 11:00 am
Sweet Pea's Studio
3717 N Ravenswood, #213
Chicago IL
773-248-YOGA (9642)
PROFESSIONAL TRAINING
Informed Beginnings New Educator Training
Childbirth Educator Training for those who have never trained with another organization. Informed Beginnings is a new comprehensive, contemporary childbirth education organization. Educator/Members are also part owners of this shared services cooperative. More information at www.informedbeginnings.org.
Contact: Deb Lawrence, certification@informedbeginnings.org
Registration: http://informedbeginnings.org/index.php/infobe-store
Evening Classes
West Chicago, IL
Teacher Training for Pregnancy Yoga:
Includes Hatha yoga training with Global Yoga Wellness Center.
Self-Centered Yoga
2201 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago, IL
Check for other locations, times & dates
Contact: Rhonda Kantor, 773-719-6227 globalyoga@sbcglobal.net www.globalyogacenter.com
OTHER
Heartwood Foundation Women & Cancer Program
Free holistic healthcare services t
o women of limited financial means. Our program offers women with breast cancer free supportive therapies including acupuncture, bodywork and psychotherapy, as well as classes in meditation, tai chi and yoga.
To schedule an appointment call 847-491-1122 x 19 and note which type of session you would like. For more information visit our web site or call.
Heartwood Center
1818 Dempster Ave, Evanston, IL
847-491-1122 x11
Foundation of Mindfulness
Consider ending your week and entering your weekend with a calm and tranquil mind and body. This class teaches the Four Foundations of Mindfulness as taught by the historical Buddha Shakyamuni. Four distinct practices are introduced to help us better understand how to pay attention to our body, minds, emotions and Dharma or teachings. The class ends with a lively discussion that offers space for students to explore how the mindfulness practices are affecting their lives. Nancy Floy MA, LAc Dipl Ac leads this group.
Fridays, 6 - 7 pm
Class is offered on a drop-in basis, beginning any time. Initial registration required. $10 suggested donation. Proceeds benefit the Tibet Girls School, a vocational boarding school for Tibetan nomads.
Heartwood Center
1818 Dempster Ave, Evanston, IL
847-491-1122 x11
Qigong Class - Chicago
Monday evenings, 6:30 to 7:30 pm in the Lincoln Square area of Chicago.
This class is suitable for all.
For info, contact: Tom Hurrle, L. Ac.,
773-878-7150,
tom@vitaldirections.com, or see Tom’s site - www.vitaldirection.com
West Suburban Health Care Family Birthing Center Tours
Tours meet on the 6th Floor in the Small CDRP Conference Room You will see both the Labor & Delivery ward plus the Alternative Birth Center.
Wednesdays, 7:00 - 8:00 PM (Weekly)
Saturday, 3:00 - 4:00 PM (Monthly)
To get exact dates and register please contact your midwife group for details.
