Whether you’re a new mom, a seasoned parent, or expecting a baby, RWJBarnabas Health is here to support you, with in-person and virtual meetups this December to help guide your parenting journey. Take a look at their classes and groups that help you prepare for childbirth, get breastfeeding support, get advice on raising healthy kids, and connect with other new moms. You’ll have the opportunity to hear advice from experts and exchange helpful tips, ideas, and support with other moms. Have older kids who need to keep busy? There are classes and workshops for them, too, so go ahead and check out everything to help with your growing family—read on for details on where and how to register. (featured photo credit: istock/Adene Sanchez)
Featured events
Teen and Child Series: Social Media Safety – RWJUH Hamilton
December 17 at 6 PM
Technology is a big part of kids’ lives, and this workshop will give them tools to use it wisely. Students will learn how to protect their privacy, recognize unsafe or unkind online behavior, and understand the difference between positive and negative digital choices. We’ll encourage them to think before they click and to use social media in healthy ways.
Cost: Free
RWJ Hamilton Fitness & Wellness Center – Hamilton, 3100 Quakerbridge Rd., Hamilton, NJ 08619
Sponsoring Facility: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton
Safe Sitter
December 29 at 10 AM
Safe Sitter® is designed to prepare students in grades 6-8 to be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. The class features fun games, guided discussion, and role-playing exercises. Students will learn safety, childcare, and life and business skills. Pizza will be provided to attendees.
Cost: Free
LiveWell Center, 200 Wycckoff Road, Suite 1200, Eatontown, NJ 07724
Sponsoring Facility: Monmouth Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
Programs for new moms
Breastfeeding Support Groups – Monmouth Medical Center
December 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, and 29 at 1 PM
This two-hour program combines lecture and movie presentations to enhance the learning experience. Join us for a free, in-person Breastfeeding Support Group offered weekly and facilitated by a Certified Lactation Consultant at the LiveWell Center. Promoting breastfeeding through peer support. Call for first-time registration: 862-781-3873.
Cost: Free
LiveWell Center, 200 Wyckoff Rd. Suite 1200, Eatontown, NJ 07724
Sponsoring Facilities: Community Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center, and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
New Moms – New Babies Support Group – Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
December 6, 13, 20, and 27 at 12 PM
Whether it’s your first child or fifth, connect with other moms to share your experiences of motherhood—a professional lactation consult is offered. Support Persons are welcome.
Cost: Free
RWJ Fitness & Wellness Center, 100 Kirkpatrick Street, RWJUH Community Education Room (2nd Floor), New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Sponsoring Facility: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, RWJBarnabas Health
Virtual Mommies Moods Group (Cooperman Barnabas)
December 5, 12, 19, and 26 at 11 AM
Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center offers free Zoom Support Groups for expecting and new moms facilitated by Lauren Meisels, Ph.D. Mommies’ Moods Group focuses on mother care rather than child care. Discussions address anxiety, depression, irritability, and feeling scared and overwhelmed by the transition to motherhood.
Cost: Free
Virtual
Sponsoring Facility: Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Virtual Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Support Group
December 8, 15, 22, and 29 at 12 PM
Do you have questions about pregnancy or breastfeeding? In a friendly virtual environment, our Board Certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and Lactation Consultants will provide guidance and answer questions about what to expect during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, as well as latch issues, breast/nipple pain, milk supply concerns, pumping, supplementation, returning to work, and weaning for breastfeeding mothers. We are here to support you. For more information and to receive the link to join the group, please register online.
Cost: Free
Virtual
Sponsoring Facility: Clara Maass Medical Center & Community Medical Center
Virtual New Moms’ Circle Support Group (Cooperman Barnabas)
December 8, 15, 22, and 29 at 10 AM
Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center is now offering free Zoom Support Groups for expecting and new moms facilitated by Lauren Meisels, PhD. For more information and to be sent the Zoom link, please register online. New Moms Circle offers a space for mothers to discuss all aspects of motherhood during this new chapter. Conversations generally focus on childcare topics, but are dictated by the interests of the women attending the meeting. It’s an excellent opportunity for moms to connect and bond over a shared experience.
Cost: Free
Virtual
Sponsoring Facility: Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Prenatal programs for moms-to-be
Maternity Tours at Newark Beth Israel
Seven days a week at 9:30 AM, 4 PM, and 8 PM
If you or your family is expecting a baby, we are ready to help you manage your prenatal health throughout your pregnancy and plan for the big day. Let us show you our rooms and amenities, expert labor and delivery support, and high-tech neonatal intensive care units (NICU), so you’ll feel confident choosing us for your maternity care.
Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, 201 Lyons Avenue at Osborne Terrace, Newark, NJ 07112
RSVP required. Call 973-926-7108 or fill out our Request a Maternity Tour form.
Virtual Childbirth Preparation at Cooperman Barnabas
Multi-Part Course – December 2, 9, 16, and 23 from 7 PM-9 PM
The Department of Women’s Health and Parent Education at Cooperman Barnabas offers this virtual class for parents to help them prepare for pregnancy, labor, and delivery, and to provide instruction in baby care. The class covers breathing patterns, relaxation techniques, cesarean sections, epidurals, a review of the Maternity Center, and newborn care.
Cost: $95
Virtual
Sponsoring Facility: Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
To be placed into a class and make payment, please call (973) 322-5360 or submit the completed registration form by fax to (973) 322-9784 or email to Teresa.Lastella@rwjbh.org
Prenatal Yoga with Ignite One – Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
December 6, 13, 20, and 27 at 12 PM
Gentle yoga for expecting moms.
Cost: Free
Virtual
Sponsoring Facility: Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
Maternity Tour – Jersey City Medical Center
December 11 at 5 PM
Is there a baby on the way, or are you planning your birthing journey? Take a tour of our Labor & Delivery and our Lord Abbett Maternity Wing, and get your questions answered by our Mother-Baby team. For adults only, no children will be allowed.
Cost: Free
Jersey City Medical Center, 355 Grand Street, 3 East Sky Lobby, Jersey City, NJ 07302
Sponsoring Facility: Jersey City Medical Center
Preparation for Breastfeeding
December 12 at 2 PM
Join our Certified Lactation Consultant for a free discussion on breastfeeding preparation at the LiveWell Center or virtually. The talk will enable mothers-to-be and their support persons to learn more about the basics of breastfeeding. We will explore how to achieve a good latch, establish your milk supply, ensure your baby gets enough milk, and pump and store breast milk.
Cost: Free
LiveWell Center, 200 Wyckoff Rd. Suite 1200, Eatontown, NJ 07724
Events for Kids and Parents
Healthy Kids in Hannah’s Kitchen (8-12 years old)
December 2, 9, and 16 at 4:30 PM
This hands-on class teaches children how to cook with nutritious ingredients, practice kitchen safety, use measuring techniques, develop knife skills, and more! Healthy cooking for ages 8-12 with a parent/guardian. Hannah’s Kitchen welcomes all children with diverse abilities to learn in our inclusive, adaptive kitchen. Classes are free and graciously funded by the Hannah Peretsman Breene Foundation.
Cost: Free
Hannah’s Kitchen at the Rev. Dr. Ronald B. Christian Community Health and Wellness Center at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, 208 Lyons Ave. Newark, NJ 07112 RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group
KidsFit in Motion | Cardio Kids Jam (7-13 years old) – Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
December 6, 13, 20, and 27 at 9 AM
KidsFit in Motion, led by Ignite One, will offer Youth Fitness Programming. Get ready for non-stop fun with awesome music, fitness games, cool dance moves, and chances to win prizes! You’ll get stronger and faster, and you’ll have a blast with your friends. Don’t miss out! Classes are FREE and graciously funded by the Devils Youth Foundation. A parent or guardian must stay for the duration of the class.
Cost: Free
Rev. Dr. Ronald B. Christian Community Health & Wellness Center – 208 Lyons Avenue, Newark, NJ 07112
KidsFit in Motion | Happy Feet Fitness (3-7 years old) – Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
December 6, 13, 20, and 27 at 9 AM
KidsFit in Motion, led by Ignite One, will offer Youth Fitness Programming. Get ready for non-stop fun with fantastic music, fitness games, cool dance moves, and chances to win prizes! You’ll get stronger and faster, and you’ll have a blast with your friends. Don’t miss out! Classes are FREE and graciously funded by the Devils Youth Foundation. A parent or guardian must stay for the duration of the class.
Cost: Free
Rev. Dr. Ronald B. Christian Community Health & Wellness Center – 208 Lyons Avenue, Newark, NJ 07112
KidsFit in Motion | Athletic Conditioning (12-18 years old) – Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
December 8, 15, 22, and 29 at 5:30 PM
KidsFit in Motion, led by Ignite One, will offer Youth Fitness Programming. Get ready for non-stop fun with awesome music, fitness games, cool dance moves, and chances to win prizes! You’ll get stronger and faster, and you’ll have a blast with your friends. Don’t miss out! Classes are FREE and graciously funded by the Devils Youth Foundation. A parent or guardian must stay for the duration of the class.
Cost: Free
Rev. Dr. Ronald B. Christian Community Health & Wellness Center 208 Lyons Avenue, Newark, NJ 07112
Sponsoring Facility: Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, RWJBarnabas Health
KidsFit in Motion | StrongHer Pilates (12-18 years old) – Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
December 8, 15, 22, and 29 at 4:30 PM
KidsFit in Motion, led by Ignite One, will offer Youth Fitness Programming. Get ready for non-stop fun with excellent music, fitness games, cool dance moves, and chances to win prizes! You’ll get stronger and faster, and you’ll have a blast with your friends. Don’t miss out! Classes are FREE and graciously funded by the Devils Youth Foundation. A parent or guardian must stay for the duration of the class.
Cost: Free
Rev. Dr. Ronald B. Christian Community Health & Wellness Center – 208 Lyons Avenue, Newark, NJ 07112
Kids Snack Time
December 11 at 4 PM
Join Ms. Jenn in the kitchen for a hands-on cooking class where we’ll have fun making simple, healthy snacks. Open to kids aged 4-10. Please email livewellcenter@rwjbh.org with any food allergies before attending.
Cost: Free
LiveWell Center, 200 Wyckoff Road, Suite 1200, Eatontown, NJ 07724
Sponsoring Facility: Monmouth Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
My First Cooking Class in Hannah’s Kitchen (5-7 years old)
December 13 at 9:30 AM
Join us in person for this hands-on cooking class designed for children aged 5-7, accompanied by a parent, guardian, or loved one. Even the pickiest of eaters will learn to love their veggies in this fun class. This interactive cooking class introduces basic kitchen skills and new foods to young children. Hannah’s Kitchen welcomes all children with diverse learning abilities in our inclusive, adaptive kitchen. Classes are free and graciously funded by the Hannah Peretsman Breene Foundation.
Cost: Free
Hannah’s Kitchen at the Rev. Dr. Ronald B. Christian Community Health and Wellness Center at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, 208 Lyons Ave. Newark, NJ 07112 RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group
Toddler Snack Time
December 15 from 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Bring your little ones, ages 2 to 4, for a hands-on cooking class with our registered dietitian, featuring a fun and healthy snack.
Cost: Free
LiveWell Center, 200 Wyckoff Road, Suite 1200, Eatontown, NJ 07724
Sponsoring Facility: Monmouth Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
Taste Testers in Hannah’s Kitchen
December 13 at 11 AM
Join us in person for this Mommy & Me-style healthy cooking class for children aged 2-4, accompanied by a parent, grandparent, or loved one. This exciting cooking class utilizes simple recipes to encourage toddlers to try new foods by exploring texture and flavor. Hannah’s Kitchen welcomes all children with diverse learning abilities in our inclusive, adaptive kitchen. Classes are free and graciously funded by the Hannah Peretsman Breene Foundation.
Cost: Free
Hannah’s Kitchen at the Rev. Dr. Ronald B. Christian Community Health & Wellness Center, 208 Lyons Avenue, Newark, NJ
Sponsoring Facility: Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and RWJBarnabas Health
Toddler Story Time
December 15 at 11 AM
Story time shouldn’t be left for just bedtime! Join us at the LiveWell Center for a kids’ story time where we read safety books and discuss fire safety. This program immediately follows our Toddler Snack Time Program.
Cost: Free
LiveWell Center, 200 Wyckoff Road, Suite 1200, Eatontown, NJ 07724
Sponsoring Facility: Monmouth Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
Sensory Play Activity Day: Ages 2-3
December 30 at 11 AM
Sensory play involves toys or activities that stimulate a child’s senses, primarily touch, sight, and hearing. This can range from playing with slime to working with bins of beads. Join us for sensory activities geared toward children ages 2-3.
Cost: Free
LiveWell Center, 200 Wyckoff Road, Suite 1200, Eatontown, NJ 07724
Sponsoring Facility: Monmouth Medical Center and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
Sensory Play Activity Day: Ages 4-6
December 30 at 12 PM
Sensory play refers to toys or activities that stimulate a child’s senses, mainly focusing on touch, sight, and hearing. This can range from playing with slime to working with bins of beads. Join us for sensory activities geared toward children ages 4-6.
Cost: Free
LiveWell Center, 200 Wyckoff Road, Suite 1200, Eatontown, NJ 07724
Sponsoring Facility: Monmouth Medical Center and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
RWJBarnabas Health sponsors this post to help make every #NJMOM her healthiest.
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