Maternity Educational & Fitness Programs

Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital offers a full array of educational classes and supportive programs, to help you prepare for childbirth and welcome a new baby (or two) into your lives.

Because our program is comprehensive and in demand, classes often fill up in advance. We encourage you to take as many classes as you like, and also provide several different series of programs to support first-time and repeat moms.

Choose from pre-natal programs before birth, and take advantage of support programs after your baby arrives. We also offer fitness classes to support your physical development before and after birth. 

Learn more by clicking on the name of each sequence:

• Choosing Your Maternity Center
• Pre-Natal Classes for First-time Parents
• Pre-Natal Classes for Second-time Parents
• Post-Natal Classes
• Sibling Preparation
• Support Groups & Hotlines
• Pre- & Post-Natal Fitness Classes

For more information, please email childbirthed@lfh.org or call the Childbirth Education Line at (847) 535-6182.

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Choosing Your Maternity Center

Tour of the Maternity Department

Expectant couples and any couple considering starting or adding to their family can tour the Waud Family Center for Maternity Services.  Registration is necessary, and the tour is free. Register online for Maternity Classes >

Pre-Natal Classes for First-time Parents

We recommend that you take as many courses as possible in this sequence, as it has been proven to be the most effective way to educate parents on taking care of their new baby.  We encourage you to register for these classes in your first trimester, as classes fill up quickly. This sequence is for first-time parents.

Childbirth Preparation	This class is designed for first-time parents and those who desire an expanded review of childbirth preparation.  Course content includes: Anatomy and physiology of pregnancy Lecture and discussion of the labor and delivery process Epidural anesthesia and other methods of pain management Policies and procedures specific to Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital Tour of the Maternity department For your convenience, this class is offered in two formats and two locations — our 4-week evening series is offered in Lake Forest and Grayslake.  Our popular all-day Saturday class is taught in Lake Forest.  The fee is $100 per couple for weekday classes; $125 per couple for a weekend course. Sessions are designed for couples.  The father or support person is urged to attend, since their role is an active and important one.  Early registration is suggested as classes often fill up in advance.  You should plan to complete your class 6 to 8 weeks prior to delivery. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Lamaze Workshop (optional)	This 2-hour workshop is taught once a month in Lake Forest by an ASPO/Lamaze-certified instructor for parents-to-be who want additional instruction and practice in Lamaze breathing and relaxation techniques.  It is available to those expecting their first baby who have completed the Childbirth Preparation course or parents who have previously attended a childbirth course. This class should be taken in the last trimester of pregnancy.  Register early in pregnancy, as classes fill up quickly.  The fee is $30 per couple. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Newborn Care Basics	This class covers basic baby care skills.  Shorter hospital stays make this class a must for all expectant parents.  Topics include: Infant bathing Diaper changing Cord care Circumcision care Temperature monitoring Newborn appearance Importance of creating a routine This class is for expectant or adopting parents and/or another support person and should be taken in the last trimester of pregnancy.  Register early in pregnancy, as classes fill up quickly.  The fee is $30 per couple. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Preparation for Breastfeeding	Our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants have designed this class to provide the information needed for a positive breastfeeding experience.  Topics include: Anatomy and physiology of the breast Latching on Proper positioning Milk expression Engorgement Techniques for success Optional "pump chat", offered at the end of the class, for participants wishing to increase their knowledge about breast pumps This class is recommended for first-time parents and is a great review if you've breastfed before.  It is for expectant couples and/or another support person and should be taken in the last trimester of pregnancy.  Register early in pregnancy, as classes fill up quickly.  The fee is $30 per couple. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Infant CPR & Safety	This class is designed for new and expectant parents interested in learning lifesaving techniques, such as what to do when an infant is choking, as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation for infants.  This class also includes some safety issues related specifically to infants.  Please note: this course is not a certification. This class is for expectant, adopting, or new parents and grandparents.  It should be taken in the last trimester of pregnancy, but may also be taken after delivery.  Register early in pregnancy, as classes fill up quickly.  The fee is $30 per couple. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Transitioning into Parenthood (pre- or post-natal)	Most of us enter pregnancy and parenthood with little preparation for what lies ahead.   The transition into a new role — that begins with 24 hour days, 7 days a week, without vacations or holidays — can be overwhelming.  Topics of discussion can include: Economic concerns Social support systems Hormonal changes Difference between "baby blues" and postpartum depression — and how to find the support and resources you may need This class is for anyone (women, spouses, partners, support persons) and may be taken pre-or post-delivery.  The fee is $10. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Spring Training for Fathers (pre- or post-natal)	Find out what it takes to be a dad from someone who knows — Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital psychologist Wayne Glad, Ph.D.  This innovative workshop helps build skills to promote active father-baby involvement.  Discover how to maintain balance in your professional and personal lives and overcome the fears and insecurities of caring for a new baby.  Develop a network of support in a comfortable, uninhibited and interactive environment. This class is designed for both expecting fathers and new fathers to attend with their newborn to 12-month-old babies.  It may be taken before or after the baby's arrival, and is offered twice a year in the spring and fall.  The fee is $30 per session. Register online for Maternity Classes >

 

Pre-Natal Classes for Second-time Parents

We strongly recommend that you take all courses in this sequence, as it has been proven to be the most effective way to educate parents on taking care of their new baby. This sequence is for second- or third-time parents who simply need birthing review.

Childbirth Refresher	This 3-hour workshop is designed for expectant parents who have previously attended a childbirth course and wish to review labor and delivery techniques and hospital policies.  Preparation for an unanticipated Cesarean is included, as is an optional tour of our facility.  This class is for expectant parents and/or another support person, and should be taken in the last trimester of pregnancy.  Register early in pregnancy, as classes fill up quickly.  The fee is $40 per couple. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Lamaze Workshop	This 2-hour workshop is taught once a month in Lake Forest by an ASPO/Lamaze-certified instructor for parents-to-be who want additional instruction and practice in Lamaze breathing and relaxation techniques.  It is available to those expecting their first baby who have completed the Childbirth Preparation course or parents who have previously attended a childbirth course. This class should be taken in the last trimester of pregnancy.  Register early in pregnancy, as classes fill up quickly.  The fee is $30 per couple. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Preparation for Breastfeeding	Our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants have designed this class to provide the information needed for a positive breastfeeding experience.  Topics include: Anatomy and physiology of the breast Latching on Proper positioning Milk expression Engorgement Techniques for success Optional "pump chat", offered at the end of the class, for participants wishing to increase their knowledge about breast pumps This class is recommended for first-time parents and/or another support person and is a great review if you've breastfed before.  It is should be taken in the last trimester of pregnancy.  Register early in pregnancy, as classes fill up quickly.  The fee is $30 per couple. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Infant CPR & Safety	This class is designed for new and expectant parents interested in learning lifesaving techniques, such as what to do when an infant is choking, as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation for infants.  This class also includes some safety issues related specifically to infants.  Please note: this course is not a certification. This class is for expectant, adopting, or new parents and grandparents.  It should be taken in the last trimester of pregnancy, but may also be taken after delivery.  Register early in pregnancy, as classes fill up quickly.  The fee is $30 per couple. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Transitioning into Parenthood (pre- or post-natal)	Most of us enter pregnancy and parenthood with little preparation for what lies ahead.   The transition into a new role — that begins with 24 hour days, 7 days a week, without vacations or holidays — can be overwhelming.  Topics of discussion can include: Economic concerns Social support systems Hormonal changes Difference between "baby blues" and postpartum depression — and how to find the support and resources you may need This class is for anyone (women, spouses, partners, support persons) and may be taken pre-or post-delivery.  The fee is $10. Register online for Maternity Classes >

Post-Natal Classes

Infant Massage	This two-section course helps you bond with your baby and teaches techniques to soothe your child through the art of massage.  This class is for caregivers and their babies between 6 weeks and 6 months of age and should be taken after the birth of your baby.  The fee is $60 and includes an instructional book. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Spring Training for Fathers (pre- or post-natal)	Find out what it takes to be a dad from someone who knows — Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital psychologist Wayne Glad, Ph.D.  This innovative workshop helps build skills to promote active father-baby involvement.  Discover how to maintain balance in your professional and personal lives and overcome the fears and insecurities of caring for a new baby.  Develop a network of support in a comfortable, uninhibited and interactive environment. This class is designed for both expecting fathers and new fathers to attend with their newborn to 12-month-old babies.  It may be taken before or after the baby's arrival, and is offered twice a year in the spring and fall.  The fee is $30 per session. Register online for Maternity Classes >
Transitioning into Parenthood (pre- or post-natal)	Most of us enter pregnancy and parenthood with little preparation for what lies ahead.   The transition into a new role — that begins with 24 hour days, 7 days a week, without vacations or holidays — can be overwhelming.  Topics of discussion can include: Economic concerns Social support systems Hormonal changes Difference between "baby blues" and postpartum depression — and how to find the support and resources you may need This class is for anyone (women, spouses, partners, support persons) and may be taken pre-or post-delivery.  The fee is $10. Register online for Maternity Classes >

Sibling Preparation

Sibling Preparation (Ages 3-8)

Prepare your child for the arrival of a new family member.  This class is designed for the big brother-to-be or sister-to-be and teaches your child the proper way to hold the new baby, talk about feelings and learn sibling responsibilities.  A visit to the nursery window is included. This class is for 3- to 8-year-old children; one parent must accompany the child to class, and both parents are welcome.  It should be taken in the last trimester of mom's pregnancy.  Register as soon as possible to ensure your place.  The fee is $10 per child, $5 for each additional child. Please note: If you are registering more than one child, please email childbirthed@lfh.org or call (847) 535-6182. Register online for Maternity Classes >

Newborn Care for Older Siblings (Ages 9+)

This class is designed for older siblings who want to help care for the new baby.  We will teach children how to provide basic care of their new brother or sister.  We will practice how to safely hold, diaper, dress and swaddle the baby, and much more. This class is for siblings 9 years and older.  Register early in pregnancy; a waiting list will be established to form a class.  The fee is $20 per child and $10 for each additional child. Please email childbirthed@lfh.org or call (847) 535-6182 if you are interested in registering your child for this class.

Support Groups & Hotlines

Lactation Help Line	For breastfeeding questions and concerns, call the Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital's Lactation Center at (847) 535-6262.  You will be able to leave a message for a certified lactation consultant who can respond to your concern.  If your problem is urgent, please call your pediatrician or family practitioner.
Newborn Hotline	Newborn help and guidance is only a phone call away.  For the first six weeks of your newborn's life, call (847) 535-6161, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to talk to a registered nurse with any questions or concerns about your new baby.
Surviving Motherhood 1 & 2	New mothers and their babies are invited to this forum to share and learn coping strategies.  Topics include: Infant feedings Sleep patterns Changing family relationships Other areas of concern "Surviving Motherhood 1" is for babies 2 weeks to 6 months old.  "Surviving Motherhood 2" is for babies 6 to 18 months old. Register after the birth of your baby.  This free class is for any mother of a new baby looking for support or wishing to network with other mothers.  For more information or to join this group, please email childbirthed@lfh.org or call (847) 535-6182. See all Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital Support Groups >

Pre- & Post-Natal Fitness Classes

All classes are held at the Lake Forest Health & Fitness Center.  5-pack of classes is $90; 10-pack of classes is $150; drop-ins are $20 per class.

Certified Massage Therapists and Personal Trainers experienced in helping new and expecting mothers are also available. For more information about class times and pre-/post-natal exercise, contact Jennifer Labovitz at (847) 535-7071.

Aqua Momma	A great cardiovascular and strength-training workout done in the pool that helps you stay fit during pregnancy and also helps you return to your pre-baby body after your child is born.
Go Momma Spin & Strength	Expectant mothers, and those who have recently delivered a baby, will enjoy spinning in a safe, supportive environment.  This class begins with cardio-cycling at a smooth, steady pace followed by strength training and a relaxation stretch.
New Mommy Boot Camp	A circuit training class for new moms who want to bring baby (6 months through crawling) while they get fit, gain confidence and meet other new moms.  This class is aimed at returning your body to its pre-pregnancy state with core and abdominal strengthening, upper and lower body toning, as well as fat-burning cardiovascular work.  Babies watch the action from a car seat, stroller or mat; most babies sleep right through class.
Pre- & Post-Natal Yoga	Practicing yoga can help you prepare for labor by improving breath control, strength, stamina and creating a calm mental and physical state.  After pregnancy, yoga can help restore the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles affected by pregnancy.
Pre-Natal Simply Strength	This all-purpose workout is designed to make your labor easier and quicker by focusing on upper and lower body strengthening while keeping your heart rate safely elevated.  The Simply Sculpt portion of the classes concentrates on safe abdominal and back strengthening.
Stroller BabyFit	A great class for new moms who want a total body workout outdoors.  Bring your baby (6 weeks to 18 months) in the stroller and enjoy the summer weather while exercising your upper and lower body and keeping your heart rate elevated.  Exercise bands and the weight of your baby and stroller are used for resistance to help you tone muscles.
Yoga Baby	Research shows that movement and face-to-face interaction stimulates an infant's physical, emotional and intellectual development.  Bring your baby to the mat for a fun session of engaging in these activities.  You'll also gently stretch your body and connect with other new moms.