Virtual, in-person classes or private classes: Which is right for you?
When the COVID pandemic hit in 2020 and it was clear that being near other humans wasn’t safe Two Doulas & You followed CDC guidelines and promptly transitioned from holding classes in a physical space to offering only virtual classes via Zoom. Now, with COVID less of a threat (let’s hope that trend continues!), we’re excited to reintroduce in-person classes.
While we love being in the same room with expectant folks again and are happy that it is officially safe to do so, we plan to continue offering both in-person and virtual classes, as part of our effort to provide full-spectrum education with options that suit everyone’s needs.
So which type of class is right for you? Here are some things to consider.
Virtual Classes
Virtual classes eliminate commuting–you get to learn from the comfort of your own couch (or bed!). Let’s face it, when you’re very pregnant (or even just a little pregnant), putting on shoes and getting in the car can feel like a Herculean effort–not to mention dealing with traffic. And there’s that frequent need to pee… It’s always nice to use your own bathroom. Online classes eliminate these hassles.
We are super creative about fostering an engaging, interactive virtual classroom. Who knew it was possible over Zoom to effectively demonstrate efficient breastfeeding positions, or practice physical pain-coping positions for labor, or walk partners through safe baby-wearing?! We do it all the time, and attendees come away with boatloads of knowledge, insight and motivation without ever leaving home.
In-Person Classes
In-person classes have the advantage of physically connecting with others in an intimate space. Some people thrive on being face-to-face. Learning alongside others might help you feel less intimidated about the journey ahead. And sometimes, just getting out of the house for a few hours can feel liberating. It might be fun for you to plan an outing around class time, dining out beforehand or having dessert afterwards (something that might not be easy to arrange once baby arrives).
Private Classes
Private classes offer the benefit of customized scheduling, and class content can be customized to your specific needs. You may feel more comfortable opening up about worries when it’s just you and your mentor. If your schedule doesn’t align with our scheduled group classes, this is a good option.
Whether you choose our virtual or in-person offerings, group or private, we promise that your time with us will be engaging, motivating and well spent. No PowerPoint slides or one-sided lectures. Curiosity leads the flow–no topic is off limits. We interact. We journal. We debate and ponder. We even draw! Our goal is to foster a learning environment that encourages two-way interaction in a safe space, where you can dig deep, connect with each other and with your baby, and approach the unpredictability and wonder of birth, lactation and parenting with an open heart and mind.
