Caring for Baby

Boot Camp for New Dads^®

Boot Camp for New Dads^® (aka Daddy Boot Camp^®) is a unique father-to-father, community-based workshop that inspires and equips men of different economic levels, ages and cultures to become confidently engaged with their infants, support their mates and personally navigate their transformation into dads. Boot Camp is validated by research and has been named a best practice by many organizations that consider it an exceptional means of supporting dads-to-be and fostering behaviors that greatly benefit children and help prevent a wide range of social ills. Boot Camp is for DAD’s ONLY!!! 

This interactive, in-person workshop is designed to equip expectant and new fathers with practical skills, confidence, and resources for their journey into parenthood. Through hands-on activities, real-life scenarios, and open discussion, participants will learn how to support their partner, care for their newborn, and navigate the emotional and physical changes that come with fatherhood. The course emphasizes practical tips, teamwork, and building a strong family foundation.

Target Audience: Expectant fathers and fathers of newborns (0–3 months)
Duration: 3 hours (with break)
Learning Objectives: By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand the role and responsibilities of a supportive father.
• Recognize signs of postpartum challenges and how to support their partner.
• Develop strategies for bonding with their baby and managing stress.
• Identify resources for ongoing support and education.

Cost: $25

Breastfeeding Basics: Hands-On Workshop for New & Expectant Mothers

This in-person, three-hour workshop is designed to support new and expectant mothers in building a strong foundation for successful breastfeeding. Led by a certified lactation consultant, the class offers a warm, supportive environment where participants can learn, practice, and ask questions in real time.
Through hands-on demonstrations and interactive learning, you’ll explore:

• Positioning & Latch: Learn and practice various breastfeeding positions, how to achieve a deep latch, and how to recognize effective feeding.
• Hand Expression Techniques: Understand when and learn how to use hand expression to support milk production and relieve engorgement.
• Feeding Cues & Patterns: Identify early hunger cues, understand newborn feeding behaviors, and learn how to establish a milk supply.
• Troubleshooting Common Challenges: Address sore nipples, low supply, and other early breastfeeding concerns.
• Support & Resources: Learn where to find ongoing support and how to build your breastfeeding team.

This class includes practice with models, interactive games, and take-home resources to reinforce learning. Whether you're planning to breastfeed exclusively or combine feeding methods, this workshop will help you feel confident and prepared.

Format: In-person, interactive workshop
Duration: 3 hours
Audience: Expectant mothers, new mothers, and support partners
Includes: Printed guides and resources, hands-on practice, and access to follow-up support
Cost: $30

Breastfeeding Basics: Virtual Course for New & Expectant Mothers

This interactive online course is designed to help new and expectant mothers feel confident and prepared for their breastfeeding journey. Led by a certified lactation consultant, this three-hour virtual class combines expert instruction with video demonstrations and downloadable handouts to support learning from the comfort of your home.
In this class, you’ll learn:

• Positioning & Latch Techniques: Watch detailed video demonstrations of various breastfeeding positions and learn how to achieve a deep, comfortable latch.
• Hand Expression: Learn when and how to use hand expression to support milk production, relieve engorgement, and collect milk effectively.
• Feeding Cues & Patterns: Understand how to recognize early hunger cues, newborn feeding behaviors, and how to establish a feeding rhythm.
• Troubleshooting Common Challenges: Get practical tips for managing sore nipples, low supply, and other early breastfeeding concerns.
• Support & Resources: Discover how to build your breastfeeding support network and access ongoing help.

Participants will receive electronic handouts, including printable guides and positioning tips, along with access to recorded video content for continued reference after the class.

Format: Live online MS teams workshop
Duration: 3 hours
Audience: Expectant mothers, new mothers, and support partners
Includes: Video demonstrations, downloadable handouts, and follow-up resources 
Cost: $30

Breastfeeding Support Group

FREE weekly meetings are open to all moms of breastfeeding or breastmilk feeding babies in the community during the first year of life. No registration is required. Information about meeting times and locations can be found online, by calling 919-350-8235, or by contacting us via email.

Breastfeeding Multiples

This class is specifically designed for the family that is expecting twins, triplets, or more and wants their babies to benefit from breastmilk feeding. Along with learning about the benefits of breastmilk for newborns and their moms, we will discuss the added benefits for multiples and preterm babies. We will have hands-on practice for both parents using various positions for nursing more than one baby. Other topics will include combining nursing with pumping and bottle-feeding as well as a set of possible sample schedules for feeding multiples. We will talk about breast care, warning signs and treatments for possible breast/nipple injury, NICU care, and where and how to find practical support that fits your budget. We will also give information about the postpartum recovery period and how to work together as a team. 
Cost: $50 per couple

Breastfeeding Multiples: Online Breastfeeding Course for Expecting Twins, Triplets, and More

Expecting twins, triplets, or more? This comprehensive online class is designed to support parents preparing to breastfeed multiple babies. Led by a certified lactation educator, this interactive session provides practical guidance, evidence-based strategies, and compassionate support to help you navigate the unique challenges and joys of breastfeeding multiples. 

Topics Covered: 

• Positioning Techniques: Learn how to comfortably and effectively position two or more babies for simultaneous or individual feeds.
• Increasing & Managing Milk Supply: Understand how to build and maintain a robust milk supply to meet the needs of multiple infants.
• Supplementation Strategies: Explore safe and supportive ways to supplement when needed, including donor milk and formula.
• NICU & Preterm Feeding: Get tips for feeding preterm or NICU-admitted babies, including pumping, fortification, and transitioning to breast.
• Alternative Feeding Methods: Discover options like cup, syringe, spoon, and bottle feeding when direct breastfeeding isn’t possible.
• Establishing Routines: Learn how to create feeding schedules and routines that support both babies and caregivers.
• Support & Resources: Connect with tools, tips, and community resources to help you thrive in your breastfeeding journey. 

Who Should Attend: Expectant parents of twins, triplets, or higher-order multiples; partners; support persons; and caregivers. 
Format: Live, online interactive class with Q&A, video demonstrations, and downloadable resources. 
Duration: 3 hours 
What You’ll Need: A stable internet connection, a comfortable space to participate, and any questions you’d like to bring to the discussion. 

Choosing and Using Quality Child Care Seminar

During this seminar, you will learn how to search for and identify high quality child care services. Specific topics covered include North Carolina's licensing regulations and accreditation standards as well as key quality indicators for child care programs. Seminar attendees will also learn how to access community resources and financial assistance programs available to help pay for child care. We are not currently providing tours.

This seminar is offered monthly at WakeMed Cary Hospital. To register, please contact Christy Thalheimer with Child Care Services by emailing christyt@childcareservices.org, calling 919-403-6950 and request the WakeMed Choosing and Using Quality Child Care Seminar or registering in advance online.

Grandbabies: "Getting Started"

Many things have changed since the participants in Grandparents: Getting Started raised their children. It is important for grandparents to learn the new recommendations for care based on research from doctors and scientists studying the physical and emotional development of infants and children.

Taught by certified Safe Sitter® Instructors, participants will learn how to provide the best and safest care for their grandchildren. They will also learn the latest information on how to safely care for infants and children and how to manage the behavior of children of all ages, in addition to life-saving skills such as choking rescue, first aid, and injury management.

Learning tips on creating a good relationship from the start as well as learning to say no to every request to babysit will help grandparents enhance their relationship with their children and create lasting memories with their grandchildren.

Location: WakeMed Corporate Center: 3128 Smoketree Court, Raleigh, NC 27604. The classroom is located on the second floor. 
Cost: $25 per person

Infant Safety Essentials with CPR training: A Comprehensive 3-Hour Workshop for Parents and Caregivers 

This engaging and hands-on 3-hour workshop is designed for expectant and new parents, caregivers, and childcare providers who want to build confidence in keeping infants safe at home, in the car, and in the community. Led by a certified instructor, this class covers essential safety topics and life-saving skills to help protect infants from common hazards. 
Topics Covered: 

• Feeding Safety: Learn best practices for bottle and breastfeeding safety, preventing choking, and safe food introduction.
• Car Seat Safety: Understand proper car seat selection, installation, and positioning for infants.
• Water Safety: Explore drowning prevention strategies for bathtubs, pools, and other water environments.
• Gun Safety: Review safe firearm storage and strategies to reduce risk in homes with firearms.
• Injury Prevention: Identify common household risks and how to prevent falls, burns, and other injuries.
• Fire Safety: Learn how to create a fire escape plan, use smoke detectors effectively, and respond to emergencies.
• Childproofing Your Home: Get practical tips on securing furniture, outlets, doors, and other hazards.
• Sleep Safety & SIDS Prevention: Understand safe sleep practices to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), including crib setup, sleep positioning, and environmental factors.
• CPR & Choking Rescue Skills: Receive hands-on training in American Heart Association (AHA)-style infant CPR and choking rescue techniques. 

Who Should Attend: Expectant parents, new parents, grandparents, babysitters, nannies, and childcare professionals.  
Format: In-person, interactive workshop with demonstrations, practice sessions, and Q&A. 
Duration: 3 hours 
What to Bring: Comfortable clothing for hands-on practice. All training materials and equipment will be provided. 
Location: WakeMed Corporate Center: 3128 Smoketree Ct. Raleigh, NC 27604 (off Highwoods Blvd). 
Cost: $50 per couple

Newborn Care Essentials: Hands-On Workshop for Expectant & Adoptive Parents

Join us for a dynamic, in-person workshop designed to prepare expectant and adoptive parents with the essential skills and confidence to care for their newborn. This engaging three-hour class combines expert instruction with hands-on practice, interactive games, and real-life demonstrations to make learning both fun and practical.
In this workshop, you’ll learn:

• Hands-On Infant Care: Practice diapering, swaddling, dressing, and bathing a newborn using lifelike dolls and real supplies.
• Feeding Basics: Learn about breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, and recognizing hunger cues.
• Soothing Techniques: Discover calming strategies including swaddling, white noise, and responsive comforting.
• Safety First: Understand safe sleep practices (including SIDS prevention) and car seat safety.
• Interactive Learning: Participate in games and scenarios that reinforce key concepts and build confidence.

Led by experienced prenatal educators, lactation specialists, and nurses, this class is ideal for first-time parents, adoptive families, and anyone preparing to welcome a newborn. You’ll leave with practical skills, helpful resources, and peace of mind.

Format: In-person, interactive workshop
Duration: 3 hours
Audience: Expectant parents, adoptive parents, and caregivers
Includes: Downloadable e-book, resource handouts, and access to follow-up support
Cost: $50 per couple

Nurturing Beginnings: Infant Engagement, Play & Sleep Foundations

This interactive online course is designed for new parents, caregivers, and early childhood professionals seeking to build a strong foundation in infant development through purposeful engagement, play, and sleep strategies. This course blends evidence-based practices with practical tools to support your baby’s growth and well-being from birth through 6 months (and beyond).
Participants will learn:

• Infant Engagement: How to foster secure attachment and responsive interactions through daily routines and communication.
• Developmental Play: Age-appropriate play activities that promote cognitive, motor, and emotional development.
• Sleep Training Foundations: Gentle, developmentally appropriate sleep strategies to help infants establish healthy sleep habits.

The course includes video demonstrations, downloadable resources, and interactive Q&A sessions. Whether you're navigating the newborn stage or preparing for transitions, this course empowers you with confidence and clarity.

Format: Online with interactive Q&A session
Duration: 2 hours
Audience: Expectant parents, new parents or adoptive parents and caregivers of infants (0-3 months of age)
Cost: $20 per couple

Postpartum Support Group

A weekly support group offered by WakeMed for any woman who is experiencing feelings of depression and/or anxiety surrounding the postpartum period up to the first 24 months postpartum. 
The group is free, peer-led and judgment-free.

Meets every other Monday from 7:15 pm – 8:45 pm 
Meets every other Wednesday from 10:30 am – 12 pm

For more information, please email Betsy Laughter at BLAUGHTER@wakemed.org if you’re interested in joining the Post-Partum Support Group

Safe Sitter® Essentials: A Full-Day Certification Course for Youth 

Safe Sitter® is a nationally recognized program that prepares youth ages 11 and up to be safe, confident, and capable babysitters. This engaging, hands-on 7-hour class includes essential safety, caregiving, and life skills, empowering students to care for younger children and respond to emergencies with confidence. 

What Students Will Learn: 

• Safety Skills: How to prevent injuries and handle emergencies, including choking rescue and CPR basics.
• Child Care Skills: Feeding, diapering, behavior management, and age-appropriate play.
• First Aid & Rescue Skills: Basic first aid, injury prevention, and how to get help in an emergency.
• Life & Business Skills: Tips for starting a babysitting business, managing money, and setting boundaries. 

Class Features:

• Interactive lessons and hands-on practice
• Role-playing scenarios and group activities
• Safe Sitter® certification upon successful completion
• Built-in breaks and time for lunch/snacks 

Who Should Attend: Youth ages 11through 14 who are interested in babysitting or caring for younger siblings. 
Format: In-person, one-day class (7 hours including breaks) 
What to Bring: Water bottle, lunch/snacks, comfortable clothing, and a positive attitude! 
Cost: $70

Sibling Class & Tour

This class presents the perfect opportunity for your children to see where their brother or sister will be born. Children, divided into groups of ages 3-5 and ages 6-10, tour the Women's Pavilion & Birthplace - Raleigh or Cary and they will participate in a discussion about what can be expected from a newborn. Each one-hour class is designed with age-appropriate material and instruction. Each child will create a special keepsake craft. Classes are offered on Saturdays. 
Cost: $15 per family

The Pump Express: Breast Pumping Essentials for Expectant, New & Working Moms

Whether you're planning to exclusively pump, preparing to return to work, or just getting started with breastfeeding, this online class is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools to make pumping a successful and stress-free part of your feeding journey.

Led by a certified lactation consultant, this course covers:

• Choosing the Right Pump for You: Understanding different types of pumps (manual, electric, hospital-grade) and how to select one that fits your lifestyle.
• Establishing a Pumping Routine: How to build and maintain milk supply, create a schedule, and track output.
• Exclusive Pumping Strategies: Tips for maximizing efficiency, managing common challenges, and staying motivated.
• Workplace Pumping Prep: Navigating pumping at work, knowing your rights, and organizing your pumping space.
• Storage & Safety: Guidelines for storing, handling, and feeding expressed milk.
• Troubleshooting & Support: Solutions for low supply, discomfort, and pump-related issues.

This class includes video tutorials, sample schedules, lactation support resources. We hope this can help you build a supportive community of fellow pumping moms.

Format: Online with interactive Q&A session
Duration: 2 hours
Audience: New mothers, exclusive pumpers, and working moms
Cost: $25 per couple

Women's Pavilion & Birthplace Tours

Of course you'll want to see where you will give birth. This free, guided tour offers an up-close look at the Women's Pavilion & Birthplace - Raleigh or Cary and a discussion of our services. Tours are offered in the evening and on Saturday. 

• Learn more about scheduling a tour or view a virtual tour of our Women's Pavilion & Birthplace at Raleigh or at Cary.
• To cancel or reschedule a tour, please call 919-350-8235.