SMH offers Parenting and Prenatal programs in September
Slidell Memorial Hospital will offer a Maternity Open House for expectant parents in September, in addition to its monthly prenatal and parenting education classes and community support groups, to educate and support parents in raising their families. Pre-registration is recommended for all classes by calling (985) 649-8585 or registering online at Slidellmemorial.org. The SMH Parenting Center and Women & Children's Services offer:
COMMUNITY EVENT
Maternity Open House, an evening of educational fun, festivities and door prizes
Parents-to-be can pre-admit and tour SMH's updated Maternal Child Unit. Breastfeeding Consultants will be on hand for one-on-one chats. Participants can inspect a wide selection of products from local companies and find out about local services as well as enjoy refreshments.
When: Thurs., Sept. 15, 6-7:30 p.m.
Where: Maternal Child Unit, SMH Main Campus, 2nd Floor, 1001 Gause Blvd.
PARENTING PROGRAMS
Your Amazing Newborn
Especially helpful for first-time parents, this class covers caring for a newborn, how to soothe a crying baby and milestones for your baby's first three months.
When: Wed., Sept. 7, 6:30- 8:30 pm
Where: SMH Parenting Center Classroom, 2nd floor, SMH Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd.
Fee: $10 per couple if not pre-registered at SMH
Children in the Middle: A two-session co-parenting class for separated, divorcing and divorced parents
During this two-part interactive class by Parent Educator Alice Barattini, parents will learn effective methods for keeping their children out of the middle of divorce-related issues, how to look at conflicts from their children's point of view and how to communicate in a healthy way. Sponsored in part by Capitol One Bank. Participants must attend both sessions to receive a certificate. To register, please call (985) 661-2657.
When: Tues., Sept. 13 and 20, 7 - 9 p.m.
Where: SMH Parenting Center Classroom, 2nd floor, SMH Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd.
Fee: $35/person, $45/couple
Trim Kids
A nationally recognized, comprehensive children's weight loss program, Trim Kids is designed for children seven to 12 who struggle with weight. The program reviews life-long strategies about nutrition, physical activity and attitudes that encourage healthy lifestyles, taught in a fun, supportive environment. Activities include dancing, Taekwondo, Taebo, aerobic activities, WiiFit, field trips, nutrition education and behavior modification. To register, please call SMH Parenting Center at (985) 649-8529.
When: Fridays, 10 sessions beginning September 16, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Where: SMH Parenting Center Classroom, 2nd floor, SMH Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd.
Fee: $50
Infant and Child CPR:
Learn how to perform life-saving CPR and relieve choking through hands-on training.
When: Wed., Sept. 21, 6 - 9 p.m.
Where: SMH Parenting Center in the SMH Wellness Pavilion, 2
nd Floor, 501 Robert Blvd.
Fee: $20 per person/$30 per couple
Girl Talk
A class designed for girls ages 9-13. Dr. Ann Lobello, Ob/Gyn, and Dr. Deborah Hilton, Dermatology, explain the physical, social & emotional changes your teen will undergo during puberty. Teens must be accompanied by an adult. To register, please call (985) 661-2657.
When: Wed., Sept. 28, 7-9 p.m.
Where: SMH Founders Building Conference Room, 1150 Robert Blvd.
Fee: $10 per family
Educational Strategies for School Success
With Child, Adolescent and Family Therapist Rick J. Marchetta, learn important management strategies for helping your child succeed at school. This class offers techniques for motivating your child to complete homework assignments and how to effectively communicate with your child and his or her teachers. Parents, grandparents, teachers and school counselors of children aged five to 14 are encouraged to attend.
When: Thurs., Sept. 29, 7-8:30 p.m.
Where: SMH Parenting Center in the SMH Wellness Pavilion, 2nd Floor, 501 Robert Blvd.
PRENATAL EDUCATION
Preparation for Birth
Designed specifically for first-time parents who are at least six months pregnant. This full-day class will cover the stages of pregnancy, nutrition, pain management options, hospital stay and recovery, possible complications, and basic newborn care. (Moms are asked to bring a pillow for seating comfort.)
When: Sat., Sept. 3 and 17, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Where: SMH Parenting Center Classroom, 2nd floor, SMH Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd.
Fee: $50 per couple if not pre-registered at SMH
Lamaze:
This two-evening course teaches breathing techniques and relaxation strategies to cope with labor. Please bring pillows and a mat or blanket to participate in floor exercises.
When: Fri., Sept. 23, 2 – 6 p.m.
Where: SMH Parenting Center, 2nd Floor, Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd.
Fee: $50 per couple if pre-registered at SMH; $90 per couple if not pre-registered.
Breastfeeding Clinic
Lactation Consultants offer support and encouragement as they discuss the advantages of breastfeeding, how to get started, how to prevent problems, common concerns and what to expect in the first few weeks.
When: Sat., Sept. 10, 10-11:30 a.m.
Where: SMH Parenting Center Classroom, 2nd floor, SMH Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd.
Fee: $25 per person if not pre-registered at SMH
Community Parenting
MOMS Club of Slidell
The MOMS Club (Moms Offering Moms Support) is open to moms who are at home during the day with children. Parents and their children meet for play, craft activities, parenting discussion and a chance to meet with other moms and their children. Other activities and outings are scheduled during the month. For more information about the Club, please contact Stephanie at (985) 201-9461.
When: Mon., Sept. 19, 10 a.m.
Where: SMH Parenting Center Classroom, 2nd floor, SMH Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd.
Weekly Support Groups
Me & My Tot Time
Parenting Center staff provides a learning and support opportunity for parents and a social playtime for children. Parents discuss child development issues and parenting tips, while their children enjoy playtime. Refreshments, crafts, story time, music and movement activities are also provided. No registration required. For more information, call (985) 649-8529.
When: Wednesdays, Sept. 7, 14, 21, and 28.
9–10 a.m. Walking – 24 months
10 –11 a.m. 25 – 36 months
11 a.m. – Noon 36 months to pre-school
Thursdays, Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29.
9-10 a.m. 25 months and up
10 -11 a.m. Walking – 24 months
11 a.m. - Noon Birth – pre-walking (Baby & Me Tot Time)
Where: SMH Parenting Center Classroom, 2nd floor, SMH Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd.
Autism Network Group
Northshore Families Helping Families hosts an Autism Network Group that is open to all parents and caregivers of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The group meets on the second Wednesday of each month. Contact Anne Galiano at (985) 875-0511 for more information.
When: Wed., Sept. 7, 9-11 a.m.
Where: SMH Parenting Center Classroom, 2nd floor, SMH Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd.
Free Car Seat Safety Checks
The Louisiana Office of Public Health Child Safety Coordinator offers free car seat safety checks. Appointment required. To book an appointment, please call JamiLyn Hinchey, child safety coordinator for the Louisiana Office of Public Health, (985) 871-1300.
When: Tuesdays, by appointment
Where: SMH Parenting Center parking lot, 501 Robert Blvd. (rear of SMH Wellness Pavilion)
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ABOUT SMH
Slidell Memorial Hospital is a full-service 182-bed acute care not-for-profit community hospital located at 1001 Gause Blvd., in the heart of Slidell. Founded in 1959, SMH serves as a primary healthcare resource for families in St. Tammany Parish, La.; Pearl River County, Miss.; and the greater Mississippi Gulf Coast region. For more information, please visit http://www.slidellmemorial.org/.
Media Contact: Sam Caruso, Jr.
carusos@smhplus.org
985-649-8834