Childbirth Education

"If I don't know my options, I don't have any."
—Diana Korte

If you're pregnant, I bet you're overwhelmed by Google and books already. You might not know where to start (so. many. books), or where to stop (hello, Google rabbit hole). Maybe you're craving that essential human interaction often missing from our increasingly digital society. If any of that sounds familiar, keep reading! Professional childbirth education helps you navigate both the resources and the murky waters of pregnancy, birth preparation, labour/delivery, postpartum, and parenting—so you can birth with confidence. Lamaze has been the beacon of childbirth education for 60 years for a reason!

My goal as an educator is not only to help you learn, but to understand with a variety of learning resources and modalities. There is no right or wrong way to learn, just as there is no right or wrong way to birth your baby! If I've learned anything in my 13 years as a school teacher, it's that if I'm bored teaching, you're bored learning. Best Birth Forward is offered in 3 format options to suit your unique needs:

Group hybrid series: Group classes are kept small so you can feel comfortable interacting with and getting to know other Cape Breton families, and I can devote my time and attention to everyone. A series runs for 8 weeks, and includes a community class at the end.
Private hybrid series: Private classes are an option for locals and non-locals who prefer a more hands-off (but still supported) learning experience. You get a custom intro and wrap-up session while you work through the course at your own pace between sessions.
Self-study series: For a more independent, self-paced learning experience. Includes all the same course content access, without the additional support of group/private. You can still e-mail any questions/concerns, or add custom sessions if decide on extra support.

Learning with a support person/partner is highly encouraged for the best course experience, whether group, private, or self-study.

INVESTMENT

$300* per family (partner/support person included)
- NOTE: *Pay-what-you-can option and payment plans available upon request. Please reach out if finances are a barrier for you!

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Is money the only thing missing from the equation of getting quality childbirth education? Reach out to Belle Vie Birth & Baby for options to pay what you can and pay when you can. You still deserve to have an informed birth

Support & Resources

13+ hours of pre-recorded content across 6 modules/26 lessons, accessed anytime.
Interactive live classes over 8 weeks (group series), custom intro and follow-up sessions (private series), or e-mail access only (self-study).
Custom content, visuals and resources from a variety of reputable, inclusive sources.
Custom course companion workbook to enhance learning throughout modules.
Private cohort Facebook group and course platform access (group series).
Supplies for independent learning and live, interactive activities (group only).
Bonus samples, custom gifts, prizes, and resource packs (group/local private only).
Continued access/support before, during, and after our series (group/private only).

Skills & Information

Learn about late pregnancy, labour & birth processes, how to cope during labour via comfort measures, which medical pain-relief options you have, interventions you may face, postpartum, and more.
Advocate for yourself to confidently react to your options and make informed, empowered decisions from pregnancy to postpartum.
Prepare for different scenarios and changes that can come with giving birth and parenting, however that ends up looking for you.
Communicate and discover your birth preferences to support your best birth experience.
Connect with other families and create lasting bonds in a safe, judgment-free space.

Payment & Options

Many private insurance companies now cover childbirth education/doula services! It can be buried, so inquire with your provider. Receipts can be provided upon request.
Birth work has always been a project of the heart for me. In an effort to make my services equitable and accessible, limited space may be available (by request) if you are unable to pay full price but are otherwise committed to getting quality prenatal education.
Keep in mind that I put my time and financial resources into what I offer—then meet me where YOU are by reaching out. There are often early-bird registration discounts as well!
If you are able, please pay the full value to keep the flexible payment options available for those who need it. Payments plans can also be arranged for those on a tighter budget!

Best Birth Forward childbirth education series is a comprehensive 8 week course in a flexible hybrid online format and is interactive and evidence-based

A prepared birth experience is worth investing in! Instead of asking yourself "can I afford professional childbirth education" ask yourself "can I afford not to be informed"? But if you can't, I can still help

Basics & Bundles

Black newborn baby wearing a hat is held wrapped in a towel at the hospital following birth

NEEDS-BASED Education

For full prenatal education in self-study, enhanced hybrid group OR private classes.

Choose:
+Best Birth Forward SELF-STUDY course ($200)
+Best Birth Forward PRIVATE series ($360)
+Best Birth Forward GROUP series ($360)

Optional:

Dial-a-doula exclusive add-on (+$100)

$200-$460

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Black couple sits with their certified childbirth educator to get prenatal education to learn about all their birth options for an informed birth

BETTER Education Bundle

For full prenatal education + infant massage instruction after baby arrives.

Includes:
+Best Birth Forward GROUP or PRIVATE series ($360 value)
+Better Bonding series ($80 value)
SAVE $40!

$400

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Newborn baby is held on a mother's lap asleep and happy showing their loving relationship and bond

BEST Bump-to-Baby Bundle

For birth doula support + full group education!

Includes:
+Educated Birth Support Package ($840 value)
+Best Birth Forward GROUP series upgrade
($160 value difference)
+Better Bonding series ($80 value)
SAVE $80!