Birth Ways
1600 Shattuck Ave.
Suite 122
Berkeley, CA 94709
510.869.2797
Resource Library
Located at our affiliate,
Waddle & Swaddle:
1677 Shattuck Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94709
11am - 5pm
7 days a week
Class space is limited - submit your registration early.
Once registration and payment have been received you will receive confirmation of your registration by e-mail.
Each class has a registration deadline of 2 weeks prior to the class.The class listing will be noted if it is full and registration is closed.
If a deadline has passed and it is not marked full, please email contact@birthways.org or call 510.869.2797
for
late registration.
1. Complete the online registration form and submit your registration.
If you are unable to register online please click on this link to download and print our registration form to submit with your payment: Click here to download our registration form. If you are unable to register online or download the PDF form, you can fill out a registration form at Waddle and Swaddle, 1677 Shattuck Ave.
2. Pay for your class in one of three ways:
- Pay on this website through PayPal
- Send a check with the name of the class and date of the class written on the check to BirthWays, 1600 Shattuck Ave., Suite 122 Berkeley, CA 94709.
- Go to Waddle and Swaddle, 1677 Shattuck Ave. and pay by credit card or check.
Want to know more about our instructors?
Click here!
Thank you for supporting BirthWays!
If you have a specific question for an instructor or would like additional information about a class, please feel free to e-mail the instructor directly. Instructor's e-mails can be found by their bio. If you need more information about who is teaching a particular class, please contact the class coordinator, Kim Lyons, at or call 869-2797.
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Classes & Packages
To register for a class you MUST fill out an online registration form AND pay for the class. Birth and Parenting Premium Package Prepared Parenting Package Childbirth Preparation (7 week series) Childbirth Preparation Intensive(3-part series) Childbirth Preparation Weekend Intensive Navigating the Landscape of Birth - NEW Navigating Body Image and Changes Throughout Pregnancy - NEW Comfort Measures and labor Support Techniques - NEW Emotional Health and Wellness During and After Pregnancy - NEW Postpartum Healing, Recovery, and Restoration Bringing Baby Home - NEW Breastfeeding Nutrition for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding - NEW Newborn Care Starting Solid Foods - NEW Feeding Toddlers - NEW Second Time Moms and More (VBAC) Babywearing - NEW Advanced Babywearing - NEW Baby Sign- A Parent's Workshop - NEW Infant Massage Twins Class - NEW Hypnobirthing CPR for Infants & Children Pre & Post Natal Belly Dance Doula Information Night - FREE Doula Training Information Night - FREE Homebirth Information Night - FREE
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Birth and Parenting Package
Our new birth and parenting package is an all-inclusive program for
families expecting their first baby. This class provides the basic
classes you will need to be prepared for your upcoming journey into
parenthood. It includes a Childbirth Class (7 week series or intensive),
Newborn Care and Infant CPR for two people with Breastfeeding included for free.
See individual class descriptions for days and times. $300.00/couple with the 7 week series childbirth preparation ($375 value- SAVE $75)$280.00/couple with the childbirth preparation intensive ($355 value- SAVE $75) Back to Top |
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Birth and Parenting Premium Package
The premium package includes everything in the basic Birth and Parenting Package
(Childbirth Class (7 week series or intensive),
Newborn Care, Infant CPR for two people and Breastfeeding) plus
Navigating the Landscape of Birth and Nutrition for Pregnancy or Pre & Post Natal Belly Dancing (4 class card).
This package will give you the basics while also providing you with additional information
and resources for growing a healthy and informed family.
See individual class descriptions for days and times. $345.00/couple with the 7 week series childbirth preparation ($445 value- SAVE $115)$325.00/couple with the childbirth preparation intensive ($435 value- SAVE $115) Back to Top |
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Prepared Parenting Package
BirthWays is here to inform and prepare you beyond pregnancy and birth and into the first
couple of years of parenting. This package will help you grow into the parent you want
to be and provide the best development and enrichment for your child. The Prepared
Parenting Package includes Baby Sign plus two of our four new parenting classes;
Infant Massage, Starting Solids, Babywearing, Advanced Babywearing and Feeding Toddlers.
See individual class descriptions for days and times. $100.00/family ($155 value- SAVE $55)Back to Top |
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Childbirth Preparation
This 7 week series prepares you for your baby's birth. Including:
The 7th class is a thorough 2.5 hr. class dedicated to infant feeding. Taught by Tisa Bowser, CBE and doula, Molly Brannigan, ICCE, Stacia Biltekoff, doula and CMT or Nickie Tilsner, CBE, birth and postpartum doula and doula trainer. Jan. - Feb. - CLASS FULL Feb. 13 - March 26 - CLASS FULL March 11 - April 22 - CLASS FULL April 7- May 19 - CLASS FULL May 14- June 25 - CLASS FULL June 10- July 22 July 16- August 27 Back to Top |
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Childbirth Preparation Weekend Intensive
This is a multi-sensory childbirth class, focusing on birth as a journey and profound rite of passage.
This class combines information about anatomy of birth, stages of labor and delivery, Comfort measures,
interventions, pain medications and newborn procedures with art projects, breathing techniques and emotional
exploration activities. A balance of practical information, self-discovery
techniques and pain-coping practices prepare couples to birth in awareness. This class incorporates
techniques from the Birthing From Within approach. Taught by Tisa Bowser, CBE and doula.
March 8 and March 9, 10a.m.- 3 p.m. May 10 and 11, 10 a.m.- 3p.m. July 26 and 27, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m Back to Top |
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Childbirth Preparation Intensive
This class has evolved to serve expectant couples who want to efficiently
gather the skills and information to birth confidently and calmly with a
minimum of medical interventions. Focus in this class is to equip couples
to engage in the labor process with a knowledge of all of the latest
breathing techniques, mental calming methods, and relaxation tools at
their command to eliminate fear and experience an empowering birth
whatever their choices or circumstances. Baby bonding and post partum
recovery are also covered but the Newborn Care class is recommended to
complete the skills and information needed to be fully prepared.
Breastfeeding is covered by another teacher in a separate 2.5 hour class
which is included in this intensive. In less depth, this class covers:
Jan. 5, 12, 19 - CLASS FULL February CLASS FULL(Breastfeeding, Monday, February 11, 6:30 p.m.- 9 p.m.) March 15, 22 and 29Breastfeeding, Monday, March 17, 6:30 p.m.- 9p.m.)CLASS FULL April 12, 19 and 26(Breastfeeding, Sunday, April 13, 6:30 p.m.- 9p.m.) May 17, 31 and June 7(Breastfeeding, Monday, June 9 6:30 p.m.- 9 p.m.) June 21, 28 and July 12(Breastfeeding, Monday, July 14, 6:30p.m.- 9p.m.) August 2, 9, and 16(Breastfeeding, Tuesday, August 5, 6:30 p.m.- 9 p.m.) Back to Top |
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Hypnobirthing® Series
HypnoBirthing® is a natural childbirth technique
that uses self-hypnosis to assist with decreasing, even eliminating
pain and fear in labor and birth. In this four part series, students
will learn the concepts and tools of HypnoBirthing® philosophy, principles
of self-hypnosis for birthing, the origin of pain, how fear affects
labor and birth, deep relaxation techniques, visualizations for labor,
preparing the body for birth, and the importance of bonding. Students
will also watch films of HypnoBirthing® births. Learn what to expect
at the hospital, comfort measures, and the stages of labor and birth. Taught
by Kathy Woo, hypnotherapist, hypnobirthing instructor and doula.
(www.kathywoo.com) or an instructor to be announced.NOTE: The class will be either four or five classes depending on the number of participants and the needs of the class. Jan. CLASS FULL March 28- April 25 June 6 - June 27 July 25- August 22 Back to Top |
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Comfort Measure and Labor Support Techniques
This 3 hour class is designed to review and also cover additional techniques
to help you in labor and delivery. It will cover relaxation, comfort measures,
massage, using birth balls, breathing and other coping techniques. Learn first
hand tips from a doula, childbirth educator and mom about what works to help
you in the birth of your baby. Taught by Stacia Biltekoff, CMT and doula.Sundays 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Feb. 15 SPECIAL RATE of $65/couple if you are already taking a childbirth class with us. Please do not click the below "Add to Cart' button if you are not already (or going to) sign up for a childbirth class. $65 - couple Back to Top |
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Second Time Moms and More -VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) Refresher Childbirth Preparation This session is designed for all women and their families who have previously given birth. We'll review the labor and delivery process, comfort measures for childbirth, how to form a strong support team and early postpartum feelings. VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)This two hour morning session is designed for women and their families who have had a cesarean or difficult birth. We will discuss your experiences and feelings and how they may affect your current pregnancy. You may begin to develop a birth plan that will weigh the risks and benefits of different options. The afternoon session is the childbirth refresher and continuation for the VBAC participants. Taught by various childbirth educators. *We will also arrange a class on a different date, if you can put together a group of repeat families you know. Both Sessions - $90/coupleRefresher only - $60.00/couple Back to Top |
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Breastfeeding
This 2.5 hour class will teach you the basics of breastfeeding including
correct latch on, positions for breastfeeding, how to know your baby is getting enough,
ways to address common difficulties, the benefits of breastfeeding, pumping,
storing breastmilk and more! If you are signed up for our childbirth preparation
series or childbirth preparation intensive you have automatically been enrolled in
this class. Taught by Molly Brannigan or Dana McMahan.Jan. 16 - Wednesday 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm - CLASS FULL Back to Top |
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Nutrition for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding- NEW!
Nourishing yourself is nourishing your baby. Learn which nutrients are critical
for mothers as well as fathers/partners, and where to get them, deliciously.
Eat to cope with common pregnancy discomforts
like morning sickness and heartburn. Get the latest information on the safety of
cheeses, produce, and fish. Taught by nutritionist Sanna Delmonico, MS, RD.March 20 June 12 Back to Top |
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CPR for Infants and Children
This course is designed to empower parents and caretakers to prevent, assess and respond to cardiac
and breathing emergencies for children up to 12 years old. Participants will receive individualized
instruction and will practice skills with infant and child mannequins. Participants are encouraged
to dress comfortably, as exercises are performed on the floor. Skills are modified to accommodate
pregnant women, as well as anyone who may have disabilities. Please inform us during registration
if you require any specific accommodations due to disabilities. Taught by Jason Nery.
IMPORTANT: The length and cost of this class may change depending on national requirements. Please call for updates. Sundays 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Back to Top |
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Bringing Baby Home- NEW!
The Bringing Baby Home Workshop is designed to prepare couples for life with a baby
and discover how to be the best parenting team possible. Parents will learn how to
strengthen their relationship with each other and foster their baby's development
during this new and challenging time. The workshop gives couples the practice and
tools to create a caring and nurturing atmosphere and to learn to cope with conflict
in a positive way. We help parents get prepared for the most important and rewarding
job they will ever have, raising a child.Goals of the Couples Workshop
Thursdays, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Back to Top |
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Navigating Body Image and Changes Throughout Pregnancy- NEW!
This course is for women who are pregnant or are trying to become pregnant. We will discuss the
cultural and societal implications of pregnancy; the physiological bodily changes; explore where
your fears and judgments originate and turn them around to move towards a positive, successful,
and healthy pregnancy. Taught by Laura Gardner, MA and Stacy Stoddard, MA, both Marriage and Family Therapy interns.7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Back to Top |
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Emotional Health and Wellness During and After Pregnancy- NEW!
In this class we will look at the emotional and psychological tasks women and their partners
face as they prepare for the transition to parenthood. Providing women a realistic perspective
within which to think about how to care for themselves at the same time as they are caring for
their infant, can make the journey through pregnancy and motherhood both more realistic and more
pleasurable. This course will offer important things for women and their partners to consider both
during pregnancy and the postpartum period regarding their emotional health and wellness, and
will provide practical suggestions for how to best navigate this extraordinary and challenging
transition. Taught by Gina Hassan, PhD.Sunday, February 17, 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. Thursday, April 10, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Sunday, June 8, 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. Back to Top |
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Twins Class- NEW!
You've Got Your Hands Full: Two Moms of Twins Tell it Like it Is.
Expectant and new twin parents! Join us as two moms of twins talk about all the
things that don't get discussed in your standard getting-ready-for-baby classes.
We'll cover everything from "Oh my God, it's twins!" through that first crazy
year with a double dose of sanity and humor. We'll talk about surviving the NICU;
weathering sleep deprivation; how to get help and avoid unwanted advice; what
to buy and what to worry about and what to laugh off. We'll talk about
partnership and body image. We'll talk about sex! This class is taught by Lisa White,
M.A., a psychotherapist, and writer and sex columnist Andrea Nemerson.6:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. Feb. 4Feb. 18 March 31 June 2 August 4 $60/couple Back to Top |
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Pre & Post Natal Belly Dance
Come learn this ancient dance form to ease the pains of childbirth. Belly Dancing
helps tone and relax major muscles used in childbirth and postpartum recovery. You
will learn specific moves to ease lower back pain and common discomforts. This class
is recommended for pregnant women past their first trimester, postpartum mothers and any
woman preparing for pregnancy.Taught by Jen Miriam Kantor IMPORTANT: This class is held at , Spring/Fall Studio, 2547 Eighth street in Berkeley Every Thursday, 6 pm - 7 pmNO CLASS from March 20- April 3 IMPORTANT: Please contact the instructor, preferably a week prior to the class, to confirm that you will be attending, or (510) 318-4596 NEW PARENTING CLASSES- See our Prepared Parenting Package for savings or let us organize a class for your mom's or dad's group. Back to Top |
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Doula Information Night - FREE!
Attend this free workshop early in your pregnancy to learn how Birth and Postpartum
Doulas can enhance your childbirth experience. We will discuss the role
of a Doula and specific ways she can help you and your family. An Experienced
East-Bay Doula will answer your questions and show videos of Doulas
at work. Tips on interviewing and brochures of Doulas will also be available. Facilitated by Linda Jones-Mixon or Stacia Biltekoff.IMPORTANT: This class is held at Waddle and Swaddle, 1677 Shattuck Ave. |
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Doula Training Information Night - FREE!
Blending the old traditions and wisdom of childbirth with the most up to date and progressive information
about the physiology and psychology of childbirth for mom, partner and baby; Cornerstone Doula Trainings
will prepare you for the very significant commitment that all doulas make in helping families start their
lives together in the most gentle and loving way! Please join us for a free information evening that
will cover what it means to be certified through our program and what life as a doula is all about!
Facilitated by Nickie Tilsner and Cornerstone Doula Trainings. Please RSVP to Nickie Tilsner at: (510) 536-5241
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
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Jan. 24 March 24 May 22 July 2 |
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Homebirth Information Night - FREE!
Have you ever wondered about the possibility of giving birth at home? Here is
a chance to meet with other families planning to have, or who already
have had a home birth. In this lively evening you will be able to explore options
about where to have your baby and who to choose as your care provider.
While you cannot plan the perfect birth, as it is full of surprises
and mystery, making choices which reflect your values and who you are
will increase the likelihood that you will have a safe, satisfying and
joyous birth. Facilitated by midwives from the Bay Area Homebirth Collective.
It is important that you register for this offering even though it is free. If nobody registers, we do not hold the session. To register please email: rebeccahusband@hotmail.com with: class date, your name and phone number. Second Thursday of every other month
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Newborn Care
This class helps new parents and caregivers understand the remarkable
abilities and characteristics of your newborn and to empower you with
techniques and information so that you may greet your new baby and begin
your new roles of discovery and care with competence and confidence.
Saturdays 10:30 am - 2:30 pm Back to Top |
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Postpartum Healing, Recovery, and Restoration
Pregnant to postpartum is stressful! This class will teach you how to recover and rehab
your body in the early and later postpartum stage. The recovery of your body
is crucial for your future female health. Learn how to address low back pain,
incontinence, weakness, poor posture, weight gain, instability, incisional
pain and more. The postpartum period of a woman's life continues to be the
most neglected. Come and explore the benefits of healing! We'll teach you
how to safely restore your body with soft tissue techniques, exercise, Pilates,
pelvic floor retraining, and MORE! Don't miss this class! Taught by Suzanne Koval, MSPT Physical Therapist, www.partmemom.com.
IMPORTANT: This class will take place at ProBalance, 450 Park St., Suite 100-B Alameda, CA 94501 Dates are flexible. To schedule a class, please contact Suzanne Koval at suzannekoval@partummemom.com or 510-523-1900. Back to Top |
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Infant Massage
Come learn how to encourage your child's healthy growth and development through
massage. This class will demonstrate basic massage strokes and discuss
the benefits of massage for you and your baby. For more information see
www.movingfromwithin.com.
Taught by Kim Lyons, CMT and Certified Infant Massage Instructor.Wednesdays 10:30 am - 12 noon Back to Top |
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Navigating the Landscape of Birth - (Pregnancy, Birth & Parenting Options)
Learn about your choices regarding pregnancy, birth and parenting
before decisions feel overwhelming or opportunities
have passed. We will discuss options and local resources available from mainstream to
alternative. A comprehensive resource guide will be provided so you can research the
areas that interest you and make informed decisions. The resource guide alone is
worth the cost of the class. The class and materials cover topics such as choosing a
birthing method, finding a mom's group, where to order a diaper service and at least
50 other topics. Taught by Stacia Biltekoff, CMT and doula.6:30 - 9:00 pm Back to Top |
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Baby Sign- A Parent's Workshop
Talk with your baby before your baby can talk! Come learn about the many benefits of
using sign language with your baby. The Baby Signs© Program has been proven to
reduce frustration, strengthen the parent/infant bond, help babies learn to
talk, and promote positive emotional and intellectual development.
This introductory workshop is designed for parents of hearing children from birth
to 2 years. For more information see www.bayareababysigns.com.
Taught by Suzanne Harkless, Certified Baby Signs Instructor. 10:30 am - 12 pm Back to Top |
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Babywearing- NEW!
This is a class for expecting parents, new parents and parents who would like
to know about different types of carriers. Parents with toddlers are welcome!
If your back is hurting because you carry your child in your arms or are using a
baby carrier, you are suffering unnecessarily. If your carrier is hurting your
back, you are probably wearing it incorrectly. In this class, parents/caregivers
will be introduced to the 5 basic types of baby carriers which are slings,
pouches, asian-style baby carriers (aka Mei Tais, MTs), wraps and structured
carriers (such as the Ergo). This class will discuss proper carrying technique
and basic carries. More advanced carries will be mentioned but will not be
taught unless there is enough interest. There will also be a session at the
end to try on different carriers and troubleshoot. Please bring any carriers
you already own that you would like help with. Instructor TBA.
IMPORTANT: This class will be held at Tumble and Tea Cafe, 4210 Telegraph Ave., Oakland, www.tumbleandtea.com Wednesdays 1:30 pm- 2:30 pm Back to Top |
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Advanced Babywearing- NEW!
This is a class for more experienced babywearers who are interested in learning
new carries or back carries. This class will also go over rebozo carries. Instructor TBA.
IMPORTANT: This class will be held at Tumble and Tea Cafe, 4210 Telegraph Ave., Oakland, www.tumbleandtea.com Wednesdays 12:00 pm- 1:00 pm Back to Top |
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Starting Solid Foods- NEW!
Starting solid food is exciting for babies and parents. Learn how to make delicious
homemade food in minutes. Be confident about what foods to introduce at what
age and how to progress in a way that is appropriate to your baby's development.
Help prevent food allergies and make smooth transitions from breast or bottle to
the table. Taught by pediatric nutritionist Sanna Delmonico, MS, RD.
This class covers:
IMPORTANT: This class will be held at Tumble and Tea Cafe, 4210 Telegraph Ave., Oakland, www.tumbleandtea.com 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Back to Top |
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Feeding Toddlers - NEW!
Toddlers can be challenging to feed. Learn why they are prone to picky eating and
what to do about it. Make quick and nutritious snacks. Help toddlers eat and
enjoy a variety of foods, including vegetables. Learn the Toddler Food Guide
and why a "good eater" may not be what you think. Taught by pediatric nutritionist
Sanna Delmonico, MS, RD.
This class covers:
IMPORTANT: This class will be held at Tumble and Tea Cafe, 4210 Telegraph Ave., Oakland, www.tumbleandtea.com 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm Back to Top |
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