Preparing to welcome a baby can be an exciting time, but it can also bring questions, uncertainty and a lot to think about.

From understanding birth options to feeling ready for those first days with a newborn, knowing where to turn for information and support can make a real difference.

Independent antenatal educator Eleanor Dixon-Rowland, based in Stockport, offers small-group courses designed to provide expectant parents with compassionate, individualised support as they prepare for birth and parenthood.

A personal approach to preparing for parenthood

Eleanor recognises that every parent is an individual, with their own experiences, circumstances and needs. Every pregnancy, birth and family is unique, which is why Birth Baby & You focuses on small-group classes.

This gives parents more time to ask questions, talk through their concerns and feel comfortable exploring what's important to them, in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Rather than feeling like they have to keep up in a large class, attendees have the opportunity to explore the topics that matter to them, feel more confident about asking questions and feel supported along the way.

The aim is to help parents feel prepared, informed and confident, with the knowledge to make decisions that feel right for them and their families.

Birth preferences and planning are an important part of preparing for birth, but parents may not always have as much time as they'd like to explore their options during routine antenatal appointments.

Eleanor sets aside dedicated time during her classes to help parents think through their preferences, explore their choices and begin creating a birth plan that reflects what's important to them.

As an independent educator and breastfeeding peer supporter, Eleanor brings a focus on both preparing for birth and supporting families as they begin life with their baby.

Support doesn't end when a class finishes, either. Parents have access to ongoing support from Eleanor and a welcoming WhatsApp group, plus access to an online resource hub. These added benefits give parents a place to stay connected and to revisit useful information in their own time.

Birth preparation and hypnobirthing course starting in November

The next course begins on 28 November 2026 at Yoga Sangha in Cheadle village and combines birth preparation with hypnobirthing.

The short course is designed to help expectant parents understand their birth options, explore practical preparation techniques and develop skills to help them approach birth feeling calmer and more confident.

Hypnobirthing includes breathing, relaxation and visualisation techniques to support a positive and calm approach to birth. While every birth experience is different, having time to learn, ask questions and prepare can help parents feel more informed about the choices available to them.

Hypnobirthing techniques are useful for all types of birth, helping expectant parents feel calmer and more prepared for however birth unfolds.

'Even though I didn't get the birth centre plan I envisioned and ended up in the hospital suite, I was so in the zone and focused on all the breathing techniques and affirmations from our sessions…My mum ended up being there too and she was in awe of how controlled I was!' - Amy Rana, local mum who took Eleanor's hypnobirthing classes with her birth partner.

Priced at £115, the course offers a small-group setting where parents can benefit from a more personal learning experience. Six spaces are available. Hypnobirthing audio tracks are included in addition to the classes.

Looking ahead: antenatal classes in January

For parents looking for an antenatal course that covers birth, babies and postpartum, a further set of classes starts in January 2027 at Gatley Hill House.

Priced at £195, the course offers another opportunity to prepare for birth and the transition to parenthood, with an emphasis on compassionate support, individual questions and learning in a welcoming group.

With ongoing WhatsApp support and access to an online resource hub, parents can continue to draw on information and support beyond the sessions themselves. There is also the opportunity to get together after birth with the post-birth social!

Helping parents feel supported, informed and confident

Whether they're preparing for their first baby or looking for support as they approach another birth, expectant parents can find out more about the courses available through Birth Baby & You.

The November birth preparation and hypnobirthing course starts on 28 November at Yoga Sangha in Cheadle village. The next antenatal course begins in January 2027 at Gatley Hill House in Gatley. Follow @birthbabyyou_stockport to be the first to hear about upcoming classes and offers.

To find out more or book a place, visit www.birthbabyyou.co.uk, email [email protected] or WhatsApp 07440398731.

The aim is simple: to help parents feel that they have the knowledge, confidence and compassionate support they need as they prepare to welcome their baby.