Grandparenting Classes: Preparing for Your New Role
Scripps offers online classes for new grandparents
Scripps offers online classes for new grandparents
Grandparents play an important and unique role in their grandchildren’s lives. The bond they share is very rewarding and begins early. Grandparenting classes can help strengthen this connection.
Grandparenting classes are designed to help new grandparents feel confident, informed and connected to their growing families. These classes cover the latest information on baby care, safety and how to best support new parents.
“Grandparents often help care for their grandchildren when they are very young and can benefit from knowing what to expect and how to prepare for caring for a newborn or infant who is close to their heart,” says Megan Chitlur, MD, a pediatrician at Scripps Clinic Santee.
Grandparenting classes are available at Scripps and other health organizations.
Changes in childcare
Grandparenting may feel familiar to new grandparents who raised their own children. But it’s important to remember also that times change. Many new grandparents today are Baby Boomers and Generation Xers. What was normal parenting for them may not be the same now.
One Scripps grandparenting class participant recently said: “It’s been a while since my children were infants and it’s amazing to see the changes of many things today versus then.”
Some of the items covered in grandparenting classes include:
Safe sleep practices
Decades ago, it was considered safe for babies to sleep on their stomachs so that they would not choke if they spat up in their sleep. Research later showed that babies who sleep on their stomachs have a higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Today, sleeping on the stomach is not recommended. Many campaigns encourage babies to sleep on their backs.
Pediatricians recommend keeping bedding to a minimum and avoiding pillows, crib bumpers and stuffed animals. This helps create the safest sleep environment.
Home safety and baby proofing
Grandparenting classes also teach you how to baby proof your home to help prevent common household accidents. You’ll learn how to create a safer space by securing furniture, adding safety gates and removing small objects that could pose a choking risk.
Car seat safety
Grandparents who plan to drive with infants or toddlers should learn about car seats and how to install them correctly.
Car seat safety laws have changed in California. Children under age 2 and weighing less than 40 pounds are required to ride in a rear-facing seat (previously the age limit was 1). Studies show that rear-facing seats reduce neck strain in the event of a sudden stop or crash.
Feeding and nutrition
The decision to breastfeed or formula feed is a personal one though there is more evidence now to support breastfeeding as the healthiest option.
The American Academy of Pediatrics today recommends infants should be fed breast milk until they are at least 1. Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for most infants.
Water is not recommended until babies are 6 months old and starting to eat solid foods.
Baby powder and diapering
Baby powder used to be a staple in baby changing tables to prevent diaper rash. Pediatricians today recommend against using baby powder because inhaling it can cause respiratory problems and infections.
You can learn safer ways to prevent diaper rash, including using fragrance-free wipes and changing diapers often.
Bathing basics
Three baths per week during the baby’s first year is recommended. Too much bathing can dry out the baby's skin.
Free online grandparenting classes at Scripps
Scripps offers free online grandparenting classes, called Grandparenting Today. These classes are led by experienced health educators and include:
- Modern baby care tips
- Home and car safety guidelines
- Updates on immunizations and swaddling
- Grandparenting roles in today’s families
“Becoming a grandparent is one of life’s most joyous occasions,” Dr. Chitlur says. “Grandparents have the chance to repeat some of the best parts of parenthood without all the responsibilities and help their own children transition into parenthood.”
You can register online for a Scripps grandparenting class or call 1-800-SCRIPPS (1-800-727-4777)