You're probably planning to take a childbirth preparation class to help you get ready for the birth of your baby. All childbirth classes are not made equal. Some classes focus on a specific technique, which can be great if that is the technique for you, but a class that offers a look at a variety of techniques may be more helpful. Most classes run four or six weeks, with one meeting per week, but many classes also offer a full weekend seminar, some at resorts or spas so you can have a complete “babymoon.” Check with your insurance company about discounts on childbirth, baby care, sibling, and infant CPR classes. Some classes may even be free through your plan.

If you have other children, you will want to consider sibling classes for them. These classes are held at the hospital where you plan to give birth (if you are planning on a hospital birth). An instructor talks to the children about how to care for newborns and what to expect when the baby arrives. The highlight of the class is a visit to the newborn nursery.

There are a variety of other classes that are probably available to you. Breastfeeding classes can help you learn techniques, troubleshooting, self-care, and comfort measures. Infant care classes teach things such as diapering, bathing, sleep techniques, and more. Infant CPR classes train parents to save their child's life in case of choking.