For the latest COVID-19 updates including our current visitor policies, safety precautions, testing and county vaccine updates , visit our COVID-19 information center.
We have begun to offer in-person tours and classes again. Tours are also available online.
You want to be as prepared as possible for the arrival of your little one—our classes will give you the skills and information you need to create a happy, healthy future for baby and yourself.
CHI Health offers a variety of childbirth and parenting classes, including topics such as birthing techniques, breastfeeding, caring for your baby and newborn parenting classes. It's easy to find exactly what you need. Take a look to see what is offered near you. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes as most classes have activities on the floor. You may want to bring a pillow to sit on during classroom time.
Our locations have opened up one on one tours for expecting parents. Please call the number below for the campus you'd like to tour to schedule a time.
CUMC - Bergan Mercy - (402) 398-6550
Lakeside - (402) 717-8200
Mercy Council Bluffs - (712) 328-5252
Immanuel - (402) 572-2580
St. Francis - (308) 398-5888
St. Elizabeth - (402) 219-7465
Good Sam - (308) 865-7137
St. Mary’s - (402) 873-3321
Schuyler - (402) 352-2441
Childbirth education classes in the Omaha area include:
Childbirth education classes in the Lincoln area include:
CHI Health St. Francis and the Grand Island community offer a variety of educational classes to enhance your pregnancy, create a positive birth experience, and help you learn to care for your newborn as he or she grows. For your convenience, we have listed classes in a timeline.
Prepared Childbirth Four-Week Class Series
For expectant parents, 7:00 p.m. Thursdays. Four-week session. For dates and fees call Sylvia at (308) 485-4627.
HypnoBirthing ®
HypnoBirthing ® classes focus on using relaxation techniques and self-hypnosis to prepare you for a peaceful, calm delivery. Alternative to traditional childbirth classes. Plan early as these classes are only offered 2-3 times per year. Five-week session. For dates and fees call Lana at (308) 390-0968.
Maternity Center Tours
To schedule your private tour, please call (308) 398-5888.
Preparing for Breastfeeding Class
This class is for any woman considering breastfeeding her baby. Discussions cover why you should consider breastfeeding; physical and emotional preparation; needs of the newborn, mother and family; working while breastfeeding; support and resources; pacifiers; and breast pumps. Fathers or other support people are welcome to attend. One-night class for expectant parents, third Wednesday of February, April, June, August, October and December from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at CHI Health St. Francis. For fees, dates and to register, call (308) 398-6595.
BabyCare Basics Class
A one-time class for expectant parents to learn about caring for their newborn, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 3rd Wednesday of the month in the CHI Health St. Francis conference room. There is a fee for materials. For Information/registration: (308) 398-5888
Car Seat Check-Up Appointments with Child Safety
It’s very important to learn to install your car seat properly before your baby is born. Please call (308) 398-6584 in your sixth month of pregnancy to set up an appointment to get your car seat checked. You will be expected to know how to use and install your own car seat properly once your baby is born.
Lactation Consultant
To support breastfeeding mothers, St. Francis provides a registered nurse who is a certified lactation consultant. This person can help mothers start breastfeeding during their hospital stay and can offer support after mom and baby go home. She is available for consultations by calling (308) 398-6595.
“Eat at Mom’s” Weekly Breastfeeding Support Group
Having problems with breastfeeding or just want to get out of the house and meet other new mothers? This support group for breastfeeding mothers and babies, facilitated by breastfeeding counselors meets every Tuesday between 10 a.m. - Noon at Hy-Vee Club Room, 115 Wilmar Ave. No registration or fees. For more information, call (308) 398-6595.
Pregnancy Counseling
If you feel you would like help with difficult decisions associated with an unintended pregnancy, there are caseworkers and counselors available to help you sort through your options and make a choice that is best for your baby and you. Call Nebraska Children’s Home at (308) 381-0568.
Doula Labor Support
For more information about professional labor support, please call any of the following doulas for an appointment:
A fee is charged for using doula labor support.
WIC Services through the Central Nebraska Health District
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a supplement food and nutrition education program for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or up to six-month post-partum as well as infants and children up to age of five. It is a short-term intervention program designed to encourage positive nutrition and health behaviors in a targeted, high-risk population. WIC services include peer counselors as well as breastfeeding support. Call (308) 385-5188 for more information.
At the Maternity Center at CHI Health Good Samaritan in Kearney, NE we feel the better prepared or “stork smart” you are for your upcoming birth experience, the less anxious you’ll be during this special time. Our classes and pre-admission clinic will give you the confidence that comes from knowing what to expect the moment you walk in our doors until after you take your new baby home. We are here to make your birth experience special.
Maternity Center Pre-admission Clinic
Streamline your baby’s birth with a visit to our Maternity Center’s pre-admission Clinic. At your scheduled appointment, you’ll get acquainted with the Maternity Center Staff and review your personal preferences for the birth process, all in a relaxed setting that will save time and relieve stress on your big day. Appointments can be scheduled 6-weeks prior to due date. Call (308) 865-7137 to schedule.
CHI Health Good Samaritan Pre-registration
To make the admitting process easier, we encourage you to pre-register at CHI Health Good Samaritan. Please stop by Admissions before you come to the Maternity Center for your pre-admission appointment or call 1 (800) 459-5401 or (308) 865-7529. Have your insurance information ready.
Sneak & Peek: Sibling Preparation Class
A new baby is exciting but for big brother or sister this addition may cause some fearful moments. Our FREE class prepares older children for baby’s arrival making them feel included and special. For more information, or to register, please call (308) 865-7133.
Better breastfeeding for Expectant Moms
Partners and expectant mothers in their third trimester, prepare for a wonderful breastfeeding experience! Our class, taught by certified lactation consultants, provides a relaxed, comfortable and fun atmosphere where questions are welcomed. There may be a small fee to cover materials. For more information, contact our lactation consultants at (308) 865-7689.
Infant Safety Seats
CHI Health Good Samaritan also offers assistance purchasing and properly installing infant safety seats. For more information, please call Safe Kids at (308) 865-2011.
Our weekly group meets in a relaxed open-house environment that nurtures new friendships, lends support and provides a place to make connections for life. Facilitated by our Maternity Center lactation team, you and other postpartum breastfeeding moms can share hints, gain more education and have the opportunity to weigh your baby & track his/her progress. To register or for more information, call our lactation office at (308) 865-7689.
We offer a virtual recorded class option for those interested. To register for these classes, see our events site.