Toward improvements in parenting: a description of prenatal and postpartum classes with teaching guide

A pilot program was developed at an urban community hospital in an attempt to enhance the educational preparation of new and expectant parents and to provide them with the opportunity to examine their values and expectations relating to parenthood. Forty-one couples attended prenatal and postpartum classes. Child development and parenting issues were the main topics of discussion. The effectiveness of the educational program and instructor performance were evaluated through questionnaires measuring parenting knowledge and emotional support. Also, a teaching guide was developed and published.