Childbirth Educator Resource Center
Best Practices for Men in Childbirth Education Classes
“I have six brothers, and I always treated the men involved in Boot Camp like brothers. We are, in a sense. Well, I also have six sisters, which is how I feel about childbirth educators, and how they have treated me since we got Boot Camp going together.”
Below, you will find a brief listing of best practices for those working with fathers during the prenatal period and shortly following birth. These are notions that have emerged after nearly two decades of working with fathers, primarily in the healthcare setting. The subheadings below represent the people most critical to the early success of individual fathers, as they are the ones who initially shape the father’s impression of his role.
Men prefer to forgo the subtle hazing ritual of wearing an “empathy belly” in front of others.
Men do not like to be made to look stupid in Childbirth Class.
There is value in, at times, separating the couples in your class into gendered groups to promote discussion of issues unique to being a mom and a dad.
Dads prefer to be referred to as “Dad” in class, as opposed to partner, coach, or other alternatives designed to promote an inclusive atmosphere. Partners in class who are not dads should be given the option to say what they prefer to be called.
Childbirth class is a venue that can promote a father’s connection to the pregnancy.
Please Tell Us What Works For You
While we have information about best practices for fathers in childbirth education classes, much of what we know we learned from you. Tell us what has worked for you.
Email Tips on Connecting with Dads
Childbirth Educators can now receive emails from Dads Adventure on connecting with the dads in their classes. To be added to the list, email alison@bcnd.org with your contact information.