About The Classes
Basic Training for New Dads (BTND) is a “dads only” pair of classes that give fathers of young babies information, hands-on skills, and interactions with other dads in a fun, informal atmosphere. Although the classes follow a general structure, each one is unique because it’s specifically tailored to address the questions, thoughts, and concerns that the dads bring up during the meeting.
Each class is 2 1/2 hours, and generally includes between 6 and 10 dads (along with their babies for the First Year Class). You can choose to take one or both of the classes.
See below for more specific information about each class
The Expectant Father Class
This class gives expectant fathers an informal, hands-on way to get practical information and a real shot of confidence about handling the impending arrival.
In addition to addressing preparing for the birth and sharing “daddy nesting” experiences with other men in the same situation, participants have the opportunity to talk with one or two “veteran dads” who bring their infant with them to the class. Dads-to-be get to hear directly from the new dad what the birth and first few months are like.
They also practice hands-on skills (such as swaddling, changing a diaper, soothing) with the veteran dad’s kiddo. This interaction is an invaluable confidence booster. Gaining these skills in advance prepares expectant dads for being an involved father.
In addition to watching fathers interact with their newborns, expectant fathers can ask any questions at any time about what they may be observing and address any fears and issues they may have about their impending births.
The First Year Class
This class addresses the issues that dads and babies up to one year of age commonly experience. Dads bring their babies with them (along with a stocked baby bag) to take part in an informal discussion along with a series of highly interactive, hands-on exercises to help them understand their child’s rapidly-changing world – and what to do about it. In addition to going over infant development along with best practices for interacting with their baby, dads get straight answers to a variety of common questions including:
- How long should we have the baby in our room?
- What’s the best way to handle our extended family’s expectations?
- Am I the only one convinced my baby will get SIDS?
- Will my baby ever forgive us for supplementing mommy’s milk with formula?
- How to balance work/life demands?
For some dads, this class is their first chance to prove that they can care for their babies even when mommy isn’t around. Plus, mom gets a Saturday morning off!
By comparing notes with other dads in the same situation, they can speed their way up the learning curve. Armed with these concrete skills about specific interactions that relate to their child’s specific developmental stage, dads leave this class feeling more confident about how they’re making important contributions in their baby’s present and future.
