Classes

We offer classes for all stages of your breastfeeding experience. Please come, bring your baby and become part of our community.
Our free classes are often crowded. Class size is limited, so register early. Free and reduced-cost classes provided by Breastfeeding Outreach for Greater Washington.
Private classes also available for all classes — call (202) 293-5182 to register.

To Change or Cancel a reservation, email us at register@breastfeedingcenter.org include class date and mothers name.

Breastfeeding Basics

Learn basic anatomy and physiology involved in breastmilk production and breastfeeding. Discuss what preparation and supplies are helpful. Review basic latch, typical breastfeeding during the first days and common variations. Learn how to know if things are going well and what to do if they are not. Take class 8 weeks before due date. Our free classes are often crowded so register early. Space is limited. Private classes also available.

1st Monday; 1st or 3rd Wednesdays, 11:30-1:00, Free, See calendar to register.

Breastpump Basics

Includes breastpump demonstrations and pumping strategies. Largest selection of breastpumps on display. This class begins the Return to Work class.Our free classes are often crowded so register early. This class is best taken after Breastfeeding Basics and before birth. Space is limited. Private classes also available.

2nd and 4th Wednesday, 11:30-12:45, Free, See calendar to register.

Return to Work

Learn how to continue your breastfeeding relationship while working. Review breastmilk collection, storage and feeding guidelines. Learn pumping strategies and ways to maintain breastfeeding after your return to work. This class is best to take about 3 weeks before returning to work. Taking the Breastpump Basics class the same day is strongly recommended; even if you’ve taken it before, it is a great refresher! Babies are welcome. Our free classes are often crowded so register early. Space is limited. Private classes also available. This is the second half of the Breastpump Basics class. We recommend taking both classes. The Breastpump Basics class is taught on the same day at 11:30 -12:45.

2nd and 4th Wednesday, 1:30-2:30, Free, See calendar to register.

Breastfeeding Baby (0–4 Months)

This popular New Mom’s Group class meets weekly. No charge or registration to attend. Includes baby weight check. Space is limited. Private classes also available.
Every Tuesday, 11:30 am – 1:00 pm, Free, No registration necessary.

Breastfeeding the Infant (4–12 Months)

Infant nutrition, extended nursing options, sleep patterns. For parents of babies older than four months. Babies are welcome! Our free classes are often crowded so register early. Space is limited. Private classes also available.
Last Thursday, 11:30-1:00, Free See calendar to register.

Breastfeeding the Toddler (1 year +)

Meet other parents of toddlers and an experienced IBCLC to share challenges and benefits of breastfeeding after the first year. Weaning options are also discussed in this class. Child must be one year or older. Our free classes are often crowded so register early. Space is limited. Private classes also available.
1st Friday, 11:30-1:00, Free. See calendar to register.

Infant Massage

Help your baby sleep deeper and longer; reduce or avoid fussy time; relieve colic, gas, and constipation; ease the stress of the day; read baby’s cues; stimulate growth and development. Private classes also available.
This class is especially for the BABY AND SUPPORT PERSON (E.G. MOTHER, FATHER, MOM’S PARTNER, GRANDPARENT). Registration is for one baby and one adult, and additional person’s should register separately.
Series of three classes, on the 1st, 2nd & 3rd Thursdays of the month 10:00-11:15 OR 11:30-12:45
$125 for 3 classes. See calendar to register. This class series starts on the 1st Thursday of the month.

Baby Wearing & Breastfeeding

This class demonstrates how to properly use your sling, as well as breastfeeding while wearing the sling/carrier. $10 of the registration goes toward the purchase of any sling in our boutique! Class has been expanded to include more time for personal instruction and/or assistance with breastfeeding in the sling. Private classes also available.
4th Friday, 12:00-2:00
$35 per class See calendar to register.

Baby’s First Solids (5–9 Months)

This class explores questions on why, when and how to start feeding solid foods; includes topics of age appropriateness for foods, and allergies. This class is geared toward parents of 5-9 month olds. The gold standard in infant nutrition is exclusive breastfeeding thru 6 months. Babies are invited, too! Private classes also available.
3rd Friday (except Sep & Oct 2009), 11:30-1:00, $35 See calendar to register.

Writing Workshop for Moms

Mothers have so many stories to tell, from birth to breastfeeding to fertility struggles, adoption, depression, and more. This 3-hour workshop will inspire you, connect you with other mothers, and get you writing. Taught by a Momoir Project instructor. Choose from the following dates:
Saturday 11am-2pm $45 See calendar to register. Next class: TBD

Itsy Bitsy Baby Yoga ®

For: Babies (2 months till Crawling)

Baby Itsy Bitsy Yoga classes contain dozens of unique yoga postures designed to support baby’s development. Each class is filled with calming, nurturing ways to enhance bonding and improve baby’s sleep. During a Baby Itsy Bitsy Yoga class, babies enjoy yoga while on their backs, tummies, or held in loving arms. For parents, this class is an opportunity to meet other moms, get support, and learn about baby’s emerging personality. Most of the yoga we do in Itsy Bitsy Yoga is for baby, but you will also learn breathing and relaxation techniques as you practice a bit of yoga yourself. No experience required.  Baby Itsy Bitsy Yoga is a wonderful way to bond with your new baby during the first months of life.

Second Fridays, 11:30-12:30. $35 See calendar to register.

Baby Basics

This class is for expectant parents/caretakers and new parents, and covers physical care of the newborn (burping, calming, diapering, bathing, etc.)

In addition, Baby Basics covers the emotional and developmental transitions and parenting during the fourth trimester.

Registration is required. Private classes also available.

3rd Monday of every month, 11:30 am – 1:00pm. See calendar to register.

Supporting the Breastfeeding Mother

A class for fathers, partners, and family members

Feeding Your Toddler

This class covers the “how to’s” of developing a healthy feeding relationship to promote healthy eating behaviors. Learn how to develop your child’s feeding skills in a way that comforts the child and supports your intuition. We will also focus on what your toddler needs to eat and how much is appropriate for optimal growth and health. Intended for parents of children 12-36 months.

3rd Friday, 1:30-3:00 , $35 See calendar to register.

Sleep Basics

This class is for expectant parents and new parents with babies up to 6 months old. Sleep Basics discusses the benefits of adequate sleep for the baby and family, and options for safe restorative sleep for the family. In addition, safe bedsharing and alternatives will be presented. This class is taught by Francine Ronis, a licensed child/family therapist and parenting coach.

2nd Monday, 11:30-1:00, $35 See calendar to register.