Support groups aimed at helping whole family

Achieving a healthy lifestyle happens because of access to information and tools. That is why MultiCare provides a wide variety of classes and support groups for Mom, Dad and the whole family. Below is a small listing of the classes and groups provided by MultiCare.

Achieving a healthy lifestyle happens because of access to information and tools. That is why MultiCare provides a wide variety of classes and support groups for Mom, Dad and the whole family. Below is a small listing of the classes and groups provided by MultiCare.

CLASSES

Boot Camp for New Dads

This three-hour class trains first-time fathers to become knowledgeable, confident dads. Taught by experienced fathers who bring their own babies, this class teaches participants about feeding, diaper changing and supporting Mom.

Fee: $25; preregistration is required.

Call 253-697-5300 for more information.

Children’s Diabetes Education and Clinic

Individual education for children newly diagnosed with diabetes and for their families. By appointment for those who need further education or review. Classes, camps and support groups also available.

Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital

253-403-3131

Parenting: Love and Logic

Based on the parenting philosophy that allows children to live with the consequences of their choices, while giving guidance and support with love. Offered in partnership with Bates Technical College.

Fee: $65/person

Six-week class,

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Bates Technical College

253-680-7500

Signing with your Baby Series

For parents, grandparents, and caregivers, a four-week series full of signs, songs, and fun practicing basic sign language for early communication with the baby

Fee: $53/family (2 adults, baby is free)

Classes are held 6:30-7:30pm

Tuesdays, Jan. 20-Feb. 10, 2009

Bates Technical College

253-680-7500

Breastfeeding Classes

Choose the best feeding option for mom and baby with current information.

Fee: $15/couple; free with childbirth class

Good Samaritan Hospital Childbirth Preparation

Five-week sessions as well as some weekend and one-day sessions for first-time parents-to-be.

Fee: $85 or medical coupon; $75 for one-day class

253-697-5300

Tacoma General Hospital Childbirth Preparation

Five-week weeknight series or intensive weekend classes. Includes a tour of the Tacoma General Family Birth Center.

Fee: $78-93/couple

Massage for Pregnancy and Labor Class

Massage techniques for labor support partner and mom.

Fee: $33/couple

Kangaroo Kapers

Children ages 3 through 7 who are about to become big brothers or sisters will love this. The one-hour class provides nonmedical, nontechnical information about childbirth.

Fee: $15/family

253-697-5300

SUPPORT GROUPS

Mom and Baby Support Group

The Mom and Baby Support Group discuss a variety of topics and have a wonderful group of speakers who contribute to the group.

No sign-up necessary

$3 per session

Every Tuesday:

Moms of babies to 6 months, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Moms of babies 6 to 12 months, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Puyallup Public Library

324 S. Meridian

For more information, call Janet Dill, C.C.E. at 253-697-5366 or email janetdill@goodsamhealth.org

Support Group for

Parents of Children with Special Needs

Shoulder to Shoulder: An Ark Angels Support Group a part of the Children’s Therapy Unit

Free

Second and Fourth Tuesdays

7 to 8:30 p.m.

South Hill Starbucks

4423 S. Meridian

Puyallup

Call Carrie at 253-232-3570

OPPORTUNITIES

Get Fit and Healthy for kids

Pierce County Gets Fit and Healthy offers healthy meals for kids through our newest program, Kids Get Fit and Healthy Dining. More than 25 restaurants in Pierce County have signed up to offer one or more healthy kids’ meals on their menu. This program is provided by MultiCare Center For Healthy Living, the YMCA of Tacoma–Pierce County, Tacoma–Pierce County Health Department, Washington State Restaurant Association and Pierce County Council. The kids’ dining program advertises healthy kids’ meals on fun place mats. Each place mat offers a free three-day guest pass to any Pierce County YMCA.

For a list of participating restaurants, visit www.piercecountygetsfit.org.

Free Tour of the

Good Samaritan Family Birth Center

Saturdays, 1 p.m. No registration required.

253-697-5300.

Custom-Fit Bike and Boarding Helmet Sales

Get custom-fit helmets, available in both child and adults sizes to use with bikes, scooters, skateboards and skates. Wearer must be present.

Bike helmet: $7

Skateboard Helmet: $10

Ski/Snowboard Helmet: $15

Visit multicare.org/childhoodsafety for times and locations.

MultiCare offers many more classes, support groups and services. For more information, visit multicare.org and click on classes for a complete listing.