
Birth Circle
Sunday, September 26
6 p.m. * FREE
Sol Spring @ Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts, 6350 West KL Ave.
Our birth stories mark a powerful transition in our lives... We never forget! Join us in this safe, supportive space to share your birth story and listen to other women. Stories of empowerment are expected, along with thoughts from those who are still processing and perhaps healing from birth trauma. All are welcome to share, or simply listen with an open heart. If we attract a large group, we'll break into two smaller groups so everyone has a chance to share her story.
Mothers are welcome to bring their nursing babies in arms, but because
some stories may get intense and because the space is not baby-proofed,
no mobile little ones please. Pregnant moms are invited to join us as well,
as they prepare for their own journeys into motherhood.
VBAC and Cesarean Support Group
Sunday, October 10
6 p.m. * FREE
Boesky Chiropractic, 4204 S. Westnedge Ave.
RSVP to: val@kalamazoodoulas.com or (269) 377-0627
Creating a circle of support, doula and VBAC mom Valerie Erlandson leads
these quarterly sessions. The purpose is to share with other women who have
had c-sections, process your birth and your feelings, connect with information
and resources, and get support for VBACing (if that's part of your plans).
Babies in arms are welcome to attend with mom, but because the sharing is
sometimes intense, we ask that you please leave little ones who can crawl
or walk with a caretaker at home.
Working Moms Play Group
Saturday, Sept. 18
Saturday, Oct. 18
Saturday, Nov. 20
10 - 11:30 a.m. * FREE
The Montessori School, 750 Howard Street
Connect with like-minded moms! We know that those who work outside the home
don't always have a chance to get together for play dates. Here's your chance,
moms! Bring your little ones for these free, low-key get-togethers led by
postpartum doula Terra Shockley. Both inside and outside play areas are
available, depending on the weather.
Ideal for moms of little ones ages 0 - 3, but all are welcome! Co-sponsored by The Montessori School and Birth Kalamazoo.
For more information or to RSVP, Call (269) 267-7300 or e-mail: terra@kalamazoodoulas.com
Breastfeeding, Naturally!
Sunday, November 14 * 1 - 4 p.m.
Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts
$40/couple
Pre-registration required, call (269) 598-1488 or e-mail info@kalamazoodoulas.com
Breastfeeding is the normal, natural way to feed our babies. To help you
launch your breastfeeding relationship, Birth Kalamazoo offers this one-time
class for moms and dads. The session is taught by Nicole Reid, an international
board certified lactation consultant. For more information and future dates,
click
here.
The Best of Natural Birth
Next sessions begin: Wednesday, September 29, and Thursday, September 30
This 8-week natural childbirth class is offered annually in January, April,
July and October (just a little early this year!). For more information,
click
here.
Navigating Baby's First Month: Tips from a Postpartum Doula
Monday, November 22 * 6:30 - 7:45 p.m.
Boesky Chiropractic, 4204 South Westnedge Ave.
$10 per couple ($20 both topics, see cloth diapering below)
The first month of parenting is often referred to as 'baby-bootcamp'. Join
us as postpartum doula Terra Shockley outlines ways to make that journey
as smooth and centered as possible.
Topics will include:
For more information or to RSVP, Call (269) 267-7300 or e-mail: terra@kalamazoodoulas.com
Cloth Diapering Basics
Monday, November 22 * 8 - 9 p.m.
Boesky Chiropractic, 4204 South Westnedge Ave.
$10 per couple ($20 both topics, see Navigating Baby's First Month, above)
Learn more about cloth diapering! Our postpartum doula, Terra Shockley, will demonstrate a variety of cloth diapers, guiding parents through the how-to's and sometimes dizzying array of options for today's modern cloth diapering. Reluctant dads are always welcome! These aren't your mother's cloth diapers.
For more information or to RSVP, Call (269) 267-7300 or e-mail: terra@kalamazoodoulas.com
Babywearing Options & Safety
Stay tuned for a future date - the April event was a big success!
RSVP to: (269) 267-7300 or e-mail: terra@kalamazoodoulas.com
Ring slings, mei tais, carriers, oh! It's enough to make a new mama's head
spin. Come learn about babywearing from postpartum doulas Terra Shockley
and Leigh Schincariol. We'll cover safety info (including the recent recall),
and how to choose the right carrier for you and your baby. Lots of slings
and carriers for you to try! If you own a sling, bring it along and we'll
help you fit your little one inside. Tea and cookies will be served. Pregnant
moms, babies and toddlers welcome! Co-sponsored by Birth Kalamazoo and MamaKazoo.