In the world of prenatal classes, this one is for our 2SLGBTQIA+ and gender queer community! This class is a 4-hour standalone prenatal and newborn class, taught IN PERSON by Ness Dixon (they/them), RM, to prepare you for giving birth and caring for your newborn in a space built specifically with queer, gender diverse, and polyamorous families in mind.
Content is tailored to the experiences of queer and trans families - from the language we use to the scenarios we discuss. This is also an opportunity to connect with and build community with other 2SLGBTQIA+ families who are on the same journey.
If there is something you'd like to learn that isn't included in the class, you can email Sarah before the class and she'll add your request to the agenda. The other participants will thank you! This class is best taken between 32 and 37 weeks gestation.
By joining us, you will have a better understanding of the following:
The phases of labour and what to expect in the first few hours postpartum
Labour and birthing positions to help support your labour to be as efficient and productive as possible
Tricks to help with pain in labour (counter pressure, TENS machine placement, distraction techniques, sterile water injections, hot and cold packs)
Inclusive language and options around chestfeeding/breastfeeding, choosing and including your support people, and advocating for your care team in hospital or out-of-hospital settings
Bring your baby wrap, and we can help you learn how to use it!
Saturday, Oct 24, 2026: 10 am - 2 pm
Saturday, Jan 9, 2027: 10 am - 2 pm
The Pride is an interactive 4 hour class specific for our 2SLGBTQIA+ and gender queer community that covers the basics of a prenatal and newborn class as well as all the hands on things you will need to know to birth a baby and then care for them!Â
The class is best taken with the person(s) who will be supporting you in labour.Â
The cost for each person attending is $75
Add The Nourish for $25 per person to have a detailed class on feeding your newborn and YOU!
Please email Sarah Leslie at SarahLeslieRM@gmail.com or use the contact page on this website. Include the following in your email:
1) Your due date and any important information we might need to know when signing you up for classes.Â
2) Who your pregnancy care provider is, such as the name of your midwifery clinic, OB or family doctor.
3) Where you are planning on having your baby, such as home, the Toronto Birth Centre or the name of the hospital.
4) Which classes you would like to take, including the name and the dates of the classes.Â
We will respond to your class request within 5 business days to confirm that your class choices are available and the cost. Once you receive this email, you can send your etransfer to sarahleslierm@gmail.com. A confirmation email will be sent to you once we have received your etransfer and that your registration is complete. A reminder email for each class will be sent on the Wednesday prior to your class(es), including final details such as the location or Zoom link and the agenda. All of the in person classes take place at The Thorncliffe Hub in the East York Town Centre mall.Â