School for Expectant and New Parents

The Welfare Department of Riga State City Municipality, in cooperation with the Latvian Association of Breastfeeding Promotion Consultants, invites expectant and new parents to free classes in the "School for Expectant and New Parents".

The aim of the classes is to provide education on health promotion topics relevant during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

In the classes on pregnancy, its course, and preparation for childbirth, led by a certified midwife, the theoretical part will cover pregnancy, its course, physiological and emotional changes during pregnancy, healthy nutrition, physical activity, preparation for childbirth, early signs of labor, and other health promotion topics during pregnancy. During the practical part, participants will learn proper breathing techniques, childbirth positions, relaxation methods, etc.

In the classes on newborn care and handling, led by a certified physiotherapist, participants will learn about the physiological characteristics of a newborn - the newborn's unconditional reflexes, development of the nervous system, communication signals, and the infant's sleep and wake states. The following topics will be covered: creating a safe environment, how to soothe a baby and help them become aware of their body, ensuring symmetrical and well-rounded long-term development, how to reduce a baby's muscle tone or muscle tension, and more. The practical part will include demonstrations on a model of proper baby swaddling, dressing, carrying, lifting, moving, and more.

In the classes on breastfeeding and related issues, led by a certified breastfeeding consultant, knowledge and practical advice will be provided in line with World Health Organization recommendations on various breastfeeding-related topics - the importance of breast milk, starting breastfeeding in the first hours and days after birth and continuing it successfully, proper and comfortable breastfeeding positions for mother and baby, breast care during breastfeeding, the mother's diet during breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and ending breastfeeding. There will also be information on how to recognize and address breastfeeding problems - painful breastfeeding, lack of milk, blocked milk ducts, insufficient weight gain in the baby, etc.

• 👉Expectant and new parents, as well as their family members, are welcome to the lectures.
• 👉Duration of one class - 1 hour.
• 📍Class locations: Slokas iela 161 and Ieriķu iela 43 A, Riga.

Advance registration for the classes is REQUIRED (the number of places is limited)!