Baby and You Antenatal Programme

Congratulations on your pregnancy, and welcome to Parents Centre Aotearoa!  This is an incredible time, as you embark on your parenting journey.

Our classes in Timaru are fully funded, therefore FREE.

Antenatal classes are held on Monday nights 7-9.15pm for 6 weeks, at ARA Timaru Campus, 32 Arthur Street, Timaru. You are best to complete this course at least 3-4 weeks before your due date.

Parents Centre antenatal programmes are delivered by qualified educators who hold an annual practicing certificate.  We ensure that the classes provide you with evidence-based information to help you make decisions.  They are carried out in a manner that is interactive, engaging, and fun.

Topics include

• Brief overview of pregnancy topics
• Choices in childbirth
• Your labour journey
• Relaxation, management & coping strategies
• Support person/Partner’s role
• Feeding your baby
• Transition to parenthood
• Responsive parenting
• Practical parenting

Baby and You Postnatal Programme

Our classes in Timaru are fully funded, therefore FREE.

Our postnatal programme follows on from antenatal classes and offer sound tips and strategies as you begin your journey into parenthood.  It is ideal for those with babies up to around 12 weeks old.  This is a three-week course that runs one morning a week from 10-12pm for you and your baby to attend, at Women's Wellness Centre, 14 Butler Street, Timaru.

To see your baby smile, play and grow can be an extraordinary experience.  You will have feelings of tenderness and closeness and a sense of awe at the miracles of the first milestones.

With a new baby, sometimes come uncertainties.  Your tiny bundle may rule the entire household through their routines, sleep patterns and personalities.  This can be very challenging for a new parent, so come and join us and ask your questions.

Topics include

• A brief reflection birth experience
• Feeding & Sleeping
• Communication and Settling pēpi
• Lifestyle changes and looking after yourself
• Physical development
• Social and emotional and brain development
• Age-appropriate toys and activities

The structure of this course is relaxed and informal with time for your questions and a cuppa. A great opportunity for new parents to get out of the house, meet other parents experiencing the same joys and challenges and foster their coffee group.