Taking part in an NCT class in Dartford is a popular way to prepare for birth as well as how to care for your newborn. NCT is popular because is covers a wide range of topics such as planning for birth, birth hormones, the stages of labour, feeding your baby, washing your baby and sleep patterns. The course covers a wide range of topics, meaning it is a great over view to becoming a parent (although maybe does not go in to as much detail as a course that is specific for each of these topics.) The other main reason why people like to book an NCT class is that it is an easy way to make friends ready for maternity leave. I have even heard some parents to be say they book an NCT class as it’s the easiest way to buy Mum friends!
However, many people also argue that NCT classes are not that helpful as the course content is not in depth enough to really prepare you for birth. So if you are looking for an alternative to NCT classes in Dartford, maybe try one of these options instead:
Pregnancy yoga in Dartford
Pregnancy yoga is a great way to keep fit and active during pregnancy. it incorporates movements that allows you to tune in to your changing body, as well as movements to help you during labour and birth. the breathing exercises are designed to help keep you calm during pregnancy, but also to help you birth your baby in a more efficient way. It is not and antenatal education, like an NCT class or hypnobirthing class, but as it is a group setting it is a great way to make Mum friends for maternity leave. Find out more here
Group hypnobirthing course in Dartford
A hypnobirthing course is the perfect alternative to an NCT class in Dartford. It goes into much more detail about preparing for a positive birth, as this is the focus of the course. You will learn the antenatal side of things, but also how to write a birth plan, how to adapt the techniques for an induction or caesarean birth, breathing techniques for birth and practical skills for your birth partner to support you. As this is a group setting you will also have the opportunity to make friends for maternity leave. To find out more about hypnobirthing in Dartford click
Newborn feeding (breastfeeding) support
Learning your options with infant feeding and how to best prepare during pregnancy can be very daunting, especially if you are a first time parent. Luckily in and around Dartford there are lots of resources and support out there, if you know where to look! If you are looking for dedicated support from preparing to breastfeed, options for bottle feeding, newborn feeding problems or how to continue to breastfeed when returning to work you can contact Bex Hough (IBCLC lactation and breastfeeding expert) here.
If you are looking for more general guidance and support with your feeding journey you can join your local La Leche League group here
Caring for your newborn class, Dartford
So you’ve learnt how to get your baby out, but how do you look after them? Claire, aka The New Mamas Mentor, is a trained maternity nurse who can offer support and guidance for the fourth trimester (the first 12 weeks after birth), how to care for yourself, how to look after your baby, how to wash your baby and what to expect from life with a newborn! You can find out more about what Claire offers here
Free pregnancy classes at Darent Valley
Darent Valley run some free online birth prep classes, which cover:
This course will run for 4 weeks, every Tuesday from 17.45-20.00. Suitable for couples from 28 weeks of pregnancy.
Class 1: Normal labour & birth and self-help techniques
Class 2: When assistance is needed and analgesia
Class 3: Infant feeding and bonding with your baby
Class 4: The immediate postnatal period and care of your new baby
To book a space go to:
DVH Parent Education Team Events | Eventbrite
There are lots of alternatives to an NCT class in Dartford, as well as some brilliant local baby businesses to guide you through pregnancy, birth and beyond. These top five suggestions are a great starting place for you to prepare for an amazing birth and calming fourth trimester.
