Pregnancy and Childbirth Education & Support

More families choose the Bronson BirthPlace for the delivery of their newborn than any other hospital in southwest or south central Michigan. Our team’s goal is to help you be as prepared as possible for when your new baby arrives, so you feel confident and ready to take on the world as a parent and growing family.

If you’re a new parent or caregiver of babies born at the Bronson BirthPlace, here are some great resources.

A Guide for Pregnancy, Birth and Parenting

You're pregnant and have lots of questions about your pregnancy, delivery, breastfeeding and caring for your new baby. When you select Bronson for your baby’s delivery, you will have access to Bump2Baby360, a free app on pregnancy, birth and beyond. This information is evidence-based, and the app makes it easy to navigate.

Bump2Baby360 Pregnancy App

Family Centered Educational Classes

Whether you are a first-time parent, a grandparent or hoping to babysit or provide childcare, we have a class for you. To learn the basics or take part in an open discussion on how childcare has changed over the years, you can find a class or support group perfect for your needs at Bronson. After all, we are a leader in the care of pregnant women and newborn babies.

We offer fee-based classes in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. Unless otherwise noted, many classes encourage moms-to-be to bring the father or another support person along. Medicare is accepted for most classes; otherwise, a nominal fee applies. Financial assistance may be available to qualified applicants.

Register for Classes and Programs

Prepared Childbirth

Prepare your family for the birth of your child, from pregnancy to labor and delivery. Topics covered include relaxation and breathing techniques, pain relief and skills to cope with discomfort during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum experience. Vaginal and C-section births are covered. In this class, you will also receive a tour of the Bronson BirthPlace in Battle Creek or Kalamazoo.

Just the Basics

This is the online version of the Prepared Childbirth class. 

Infant Health, Care and Safety 

Expectant parents will learn the basics of baby care and baby safety.   Topics include what to expect with your newborn in the first few hours and days after birth, bathing, diapering, soothing, recognizing signs of illness, CPR and choking rescue, safe sleep, car seat safety, and home safety.  Please invite grandparents to join this same class under the title Grandparents 101.

Grandparents 101

This is the same class as the Infant Health, Care and Safety class. Grandparents can learn alongside expectant parents. Grandparents sign up under the "Grandparents 101" online.

Successful Breastfeeding

Moms-to-be learn the basics and benefits of breastfeeding, as well as tips for the first days in the hospital, establishing a milk supply, medications, nutrition, problem-solving and returning to work.

Infant Massage

Infant massage has many benefits for both babies and parents/caregivers, including reducing stress, improving bonding, regulating sleep and aiding in digestion. This class is for parents or primary caregivers and their babies who are at least two weeks old to not yet crawling.

Bootcamp for New Dads

In this male-only class, new dads will learn from experienced fathers who have supported moms-to-be through birth and the time that follows. They will build confidence and prepare for the joys of fatherhood.

Starting Together Sibling

Designed specifically for children between ages 3 and 10, siblings will learn about having a new baby at home. They will learn how to hold a baby safely, how to help mom and dad care for the baby, where mom will have the baby and more. The class includes a child-friendly tour of the Bronson BirthPlace.

Perinatal Emotional Support Group

Bronson is no longer offering our in-house Perinatal Emotional Support Group. However, support is still available through a trusted national resource: Postpartum Support International (PSI). PSI offers over 50 free, virtual support groups every week, providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for individuals navigating perinatal and postpartum challenges. To learn more or register for a group, visit the PSI website. 

Safe Sitter

Designed by a pediatrician, this two-day class teaches preteens, in grades 6-8, how to be safe sitters. They will learn the importance of their role, stressing that they are responsible for the life, health and safety of the children in their care. They will learn about childcare, behavior management, handling medical emergencies, hands-on basic life-saving techniques, the business of baby-sitting, safety, security, child development and age-appropriate activities.

Baby Talk*

Network with other parents and share the joys and trials of caring for a new baby. This weekly support group for parents and caregivers is also a playgroup for infants up to one year old.

Toddler Talk*

Network with other parents and share the joys and trials of caring for a toddler. This weekly support group for parents and caregivers is also a playgroup for toddlers, from one to four years old.

*These classes are only offered in Kalamazoo.

Car Seat Installation

Watch this video to see how to properly install a car seat so your baby's first ride home will be a safe one.