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 February 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/Basilico Studio Stock)
Featured events
Go RED Fashion Show @ The Commons – RWJUH Somerset
February 14 at 12 PM
In recognition of February’s Heart Month, RWJUH Somerset and Bridgewater Commons join forces to present an exciting health-focused family festival on the Lower Level and a red-styled fashion show, hosted by stylist Leslie Patrizio, in Center Court. Heart disease survivors and healthcare practitioners will model clothing from the mall’s shops. Family Health activities to include kids’ fitness sessions, friendship bracelet workshops, heart-healthy nutrition, a Teddy Bear Clinic, and face painting. Rachana Kulkarni, cardiologist at RWJUH Somerset and member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, will discuss the symptoms of heart attacks in women and strategies for good heart health. Free blood pressure screenings will be available. Event guests will also be able to enter for a chance to win a $500 shopping spree at any participating shop in the fashion show and receive access to special mall offers.
Cost: Free
Bridgewater Commons Mall, 400 Commons Way, Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Sponsoring Facility: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset
Safe @ Home (in-person)
February 16 at 10:30 AM
Safe@Home by Safe Sitter® is designed for students in grades 4-6 to help them stay safe when they are home alone. This program teaches students to practice safe habits, prevent unsafe situations, and respond appropriately when faced with hazards such as power failures or weather emergencies. All students will receive a book with this vital information. Healthy snacks will be provided to attendees.
Cost: Free
LiveWell Center, 200 Wyckoff Road, Suite 1200, Eatontown, NJ 07724
Sponsoring Facilities: Monmouth Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
Programs for new moms
Virtual New Moms’ Circle Support Group (Cooperman Barnabas)
February 2, 9, 16, and 23 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
Breastfeeding Support Groups – Monmouth Medical Center
February 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, and 26 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
February 4 and 18 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)
February 6, 13, 20, and 27 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
Breastfeeding Classes – Jersey City Medical Center
February 23 at 6:30 PM
This two-hour program combines lecture and film presentations to enhance the learning experience. Topics include how breastfeeding works, latching on and positioning, when to feed your baby, and breast care.
Cost: $35
Jersey City Medical Center, 355 Grand Street, 4 East Conference Room, Jersey City, NJ 07302
Sponsoring Facility: Jersey City 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. You’ll see rooms and amenities, expert labor and delivery support, and high-tech neonatal intensive care units (NICU), so you’ll feel confident choosing Newark Beth Israel 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 – February 3, 10, 17, and 24 from 7 PM-9 PM
The Department of Women’s Health and Parent Education at Cooperman Barnabas offers this virtual class to help parents prepare for pregnancy, labor, and delivery and learn 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
Virtual Prenatal Yoga with Ignite One – Newark Best Israel Medical Center
February 7, 14, 21, and 28 at 12 PM
Gentle yoga for expecting moms to do in the comfort of their home.
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
Preparation for Breastfeeding
February 13 at 2 PM
Join a Certified Lactation Consultant for a free discussion on breastfeeding preparation at the LiveWell Center or virtually. The talk will help mothers-to-be and their support people learn 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
KidsFit in Motion | StrongHer Pilates (12-18 years old) – Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
February 2, 9, 16, and 23 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, faster, and 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
February 2, 9, 16, and 23 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, faster, and 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
Healthy Kids in Hannah’s Kitchen
February 3, 10, 17, and 24 at 4:30 PM
Join in person or virtually for this hands-on cooking session for ages 8-12; parents/guardians must register. Your child will learn how to cook with nutritious ingredients, read recipes, follow kitchen safety tips, master measuring techniques, develop knife skills, and more. For class links and more information, contact Emily Ho, RDN. emily.ho@rwjbh.org. 973-926-7371
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: Children’s Hospital of New Jersey, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
KidsFit in Motion | Happy Feet Fitness (3-7 years old) – Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
February 7, 14, 21, and 28 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, faster, and 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 | Cardio Kids Jam (7-13 years old) – Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
February 7, 14, 21, and 28 at 10 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, faster, and 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
Wheee Get Fit & Play
February 12 and 26 at 9:30 AM
Wheee Get Fit & Play is a boot-camp-style group fitness class for moms and their little ones! The class includes a 30-40 minute workout, followed by 15-20 minutes of kid-time activities, during which we play songs, dance, and crawl! We welcome ALL fitness levels, ages, sizes, and backgrounds. Certified Pregnancy and Postpartum fitness instructors help make modifications to meet you where you’re at. Being in a class full of moms creates a great community of new friendships to bloom. Ask your doctor if you are cleared to exercise before taking the class.
Cost: Free
LiveWell Center, 200 Wyckoff Road, Suite 1200, Eatontown, NJ 07724
Sponsoring Facility: Monmouth Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
Toddler Snack Time
February 16 from 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Bring your children 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
Programs for grandparents
Virtual Grandparenting Seminar – Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
February 4 at 4 PM
A virtual seminar which allows grandparents-to-be to discuss their concerns and receive information on the importance of grandparenting, advancements in childbirth, trends and changes in infant care, and family communication.
Cost: Fee
Sponsoring Facility: Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
RWJBarnabas Health sponsors this post.
Want the inside scoop? Sign up for the NJMOM bi-weekly newsletter to get the lowdown on everything for your family in NJ (think of it as the ultimate cheat sheet for NJ Moms). And don’t forget to tag your photos #NJMOM and @njmom for a chance to be featured.
