We often hear this question, and Loving Arms alumni have answered with a resounding YES! Our independent perspective combines evidence-based info, knowledge of hospital protocols, and tips from experienced local birth workers & educators. Our goal is always to give you the information you need to advocate for yourself, and make choices that feel right for you, your baby, and your experience.

Our classes are different from hospital classes in very important ways:

• We do a deep dive into preparing for the mental, emotional, and physical work of birth; most hospital classes focus on just the stages of labor.

• You’ll get lots of hands-on practice in comfort measures, labor positions, breathing techniques, birth advocacy, and more.

• We include tips from experienced local birth workers & educators, whose insight can help you smoothly navigate both laboring at home and hospital protocols.

And it’s not just about the education! Our classes create opportunities for parents to form meaningful, lasting connections with each other. Loving Arms alumni have gone on to meet weekly after their babies are born, text each other for midnight feeding camaraderie, meet up for holidays, do nanny shares together, etc! We believe in The Village!

Many insurance plans cover our classes. We can provide a superbill if needed - just let us know. Depending on your plan, many people are eligible for reimbursement in part or in full for the following classes through their insurance plans:

• Childbirth Preparation

• CPR/Child Safety

• Breast/Chestfeeding

• Baby care

Compare our different classes - including fees and hours - with this handy overview.

If you still have questions, please send us a note: we’re happy to provide recommendations based on your specific needs and goals.

Choose a class that ends close to your due date, but ideally finishing by the time you are 37-38 weeks pregnant. The six week series has a rolling start of once every month. If you don’t see a class that works for your due date, our classes are full. Send an email with your due date to be placed on the waiting list.

If you cancel with at least two weeks advance notice, we will issue a refund, minus a non-refundable deposit of 25%. If we can fill your spot, we will issue a refund less credit card fees. If you cancel with less than two weeks advance notice and we are unable to fill your spot, we are unable to issue a full refund. 

Once the class has started, no refunds will be issued.

All our classes are held in person at our cozy office in Emeryville. Our classroom has great ventilation and air purifiers. We follow the guidelines of local Alameda County Health authorities with regards to masking and distancing. Masks are welcome, but no longer requIred.

If you feel ill, please stay home and contact your instructor to get caught up on what you missed that day!

It is cozy, and yes, you sure can! For info, photos, fees, and scheduling, visit our classroom rental page.