Programs & Classes

For information on any of these programs, please call the Griffin Childbirth Educator at (203) 732-7595.

Childbirth Center

The following classes are taught by Nurse Educators and are open to any expectant mothers of the community, whether or not they plan to deliver at Griffin Hospital.

Child Car Seat Installation

Did you know that 4 out of 5 car seats are installed incorrectly? In 2001, more than 30,000 children were injured in car seats that were not properly installed.

At the Childbirth Center at Griffin Hospital, we are committed to the safety of your child and are now offering a free car seat safety check. We have three nurses who are certified car seat technicians and we will install your infant seat or child seat properly -- FREE!

This important service is offered every 3rd Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment. Call (203) 732-7595. Or if you can't make it then, please call as we can arrange other times for you to have your seat checked.

Breastfeeding Preparation

This two hour class is offered monthly. It is is designed for women thinking about breastfeeding. Partners are strongly encouraged to come so they can learn how to support the nursing couple. The class, taught by a board certified lactation consultant on staff at the hospital, covers the benefits of breastfeeding, how to get started, combining breastfeeding with working and any other questions or concerns the attendees may have. Fee is $20

Early Pregnancy Class

A class for first time parents in the first 15 weeks of pregnancy. This class provides necessary information needed to understand the normal process of pregnancy including the female anatomy and physiology, and fetal development. Good health habits are discussed inducing proper nutrition, weight gain, rest, exercise, and other prenatal care. Meets as needed for a one time three-hour class. Cost: $30

Grandparents Class

This class is designed to alleviate the stress between parents and grandparents by providing information about the changing roles of grandparents, changing trends and new philosophies regarding infant care. Meets as needed. No charge.

Mom 2 Mom

Seeking companionship, support or guidance? Looking to meet other new mothers? Come join us for the Mom to Mom support group at the Griffin Hospital Childbirth Center. The meetings are designed for expectant mothers in their 3rd trimester and new mothers and their babies. Discussions will include a baby related topics, such as preparing for baby, family life, feeding and nutrition, as well as participants’ own questions and concerns. A play group / social hour will follow each hour-long meeting, so participants are encouraged to bring a toy along to share. Meetings are led by Shelly and Leigh-Anne, both of whom are registered nurses, childbirth educators, and experienced mothers. For more information call Shelly Taylor at 203.732.7595 or email to staylor@griffinhealth.org.

Prepared Childbirth (six class series - Lamaze)

For expectant mothers and their spouse or birth partner. This class is taught by Childbirth Center nurses who discuss normal and abnormal changes during pregnancy, Lamaze breathing techniques, medication options, cesarean birth, and all aspects of labor and birth. A tour of the Childbirth Center is included. The class is offered as a six-week session from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM during the week, or as a one-day class offered one Saturday a month from 9:00 - 4:00 PM. Register before the end of the second trimester. Seats are limited. $150

Refresher Lamaze

This two-session class is for couples who have attended prepared childbirth classes with a previous pregnancy. The class reviews the birthing process, relaxation, breathing techniques and sibling issues. Parents should register between the fourth and sixth month of pregnancy. This three-hour class is offered monthly. Cost: $30.

Sibling Preparation

This course is for children ages 2 1/2 to 8 years and will provide information regarding the new baby: how to handle the baby, what babies eat, how they communicate and more. Moms should be in 8th month when children take this class, held one Saturday each month, 9:30 - 11 a.m. Free. Register early because this class fills up quickly. No charge.

Tot Safety & CPR

Class covers infant and child CPR and choking techniques with mannequins, poison prevention and other helpful tips, using American Heart Association Guidelines. This three-hour class is offered one Saturday per month. Register at any time during or after pregnancy. Seats are limited. Cost: $30.