HypnoBirthing® classes
These are taught in small groups (2-3 couples) or as a one to one. A course comprises of four sessions of 2.5 hours at weekends or in the evening. An optional private 5th session can be arranged nearer the due date. Couples are encouraged to practice in between sesssions and after the course. Reading materials and CD's are provided to assist with this. I run group classes at my house in Knaphill, Woking or privately in your house ( may be useful for those otherwise needing babtsitters).
As I am also a midwife at Heatherwood hospital in Ascot,Berks I am now offering FREE classes to anyone booked to have their baby at home or at Wexham. These are held at the hospital on weekday evenings and at weekends. Please check the 'HypnoBirthing' webpage for more details.
Couples' classes
These are usually for first-time parents and help both partners get involved in the preparations for labour and birth. For many men, couples' classes offer a specific time to focus on the pregnancy, which can make the process more real for them. It's also an opportunity to meet other fathers-to-be. I'm available for private classes if you are unable to get on any NHS ones.
Refresher classes
As these are aimed at women who already have children, one-to-one sessions in the family's home may be more appropriate. Topics can be tailored to the clients specific needs and at a convenient time. Most antenatal classes are 'client-led' to a greater or lesser extent, but this is especially true of refresher classes. For example, second-time mothers often want to talk about their birth experiences and to be updated on research and changes in birth practices, but may feel totally confident about feeding and babycare. These are run on a private basis so contact me for rates.
Early pregnancy classes
These classes are aimed at newly expectant parents and provide information on diet and exercise in pregnancy, scans and screening, maternity services, maternity benefits and working, types of antenatal care and ways of coping with the minor disorders of pregnancy such as nausea and vomitting. Again this is only available as a private class so contact me for rates.
Post-natal support groups
These classes are run as a FREE 6 week course for new mothers with babies from 2 weeks. They are a self help group but co-ordinated by myself with specific topics for discussion planned each week. After 6 weeks the group tend to remain in contact and arrange to meet up for walks etc and in each others houses. For more details go to:
www.southascotchildrenscentre.co.uk These classes are totally free !
Ante-natal and post-natal exercise classes in Ascot
I run a group class in South Ascot for mums with bumps or babies ! Its held on tuesdays at 11.30 -12.30pm at the South Ascot Church Hall, Church rd, South Ascot SL5 9EB. cost is £6 for the hour or buy a course of 5 for only £25. They can be carried over if you dont take them all before the birth !
The class is suitable right up until the birth and from 4 weeks after a normal birth if everything is healed and from 8 weeks after a C. Section. Babies are welcome in car seats or buggies and you may want to bring a mat and/or a play gym to entertain older babies ! Some of the exercises can be done using the baby as extra weight to add resistance.
You'll need to wear loose comfortable clothing with layers as you may get quite hot. trainers are essential as is a water bottle. A good supportive bra is a must especially if you are breast feeding. A yoga mat is useful too as I don't always have enough.
Expectant mums are encouraged to bring a Fitball if they have one so they can be shown specific exercises whilst sitting on the ball. (great for getting the baby into the best position for birth !) I have a few pumped up at the class but its important to get the right size.
The class consists of a warm-up and some stretching followed by a short aerobic section to music. Its not particularly dance-orientated so dont worry if you're not all that co-ordinated ! We then focus on exercises to target specific muscle groups such as the abdominals (post-natally) and pelvic floor ! we finish with a cool-down stretch on the floor before a chance to have a chat whilst clearing out of the hall. The group also has the added benefit of helping you get to know other mums and mums-to-be !
You may like to attend the free New Mums discussion group (see above) that I run a short walk away before the exercise class. Contact Laura on 07512 850 387 to register.We finish that in the school by about 11.15, leaving enough time to walk accross before the exercise class.
Please email me prior to attending the class so I can send you a health questionnaire which then saves time before your 1st class.
Looking forward to meeting you and your baby/bump !!!
BABY MASSAGE CLASSES
I now run Baby Massage classes. This is a 5 week course costing £40 but including a free dads session on a saturday once a month. Please email me for further details and to book your place on my next course
I can also be hired for group or private sessions in your home. I charge £40 per 1 hour session including petrol but if you make up a group of friends this cost can be split !
mandy_mole@hotmail.com