As I write the Brilliant Activities for Birth Educators post for March 2021, I am both stunned and not totally surprised that much of the world continues to be heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and virtual perinatal classes are still the norm.  I am curious and unsure when it will be considered safe to once again hold in-person classes for those families expecting a baby.  I do believe that even once in-person classes return, there will continue to be a consistent demand for live, virtual classes as well.  Today’s Brilliant Activities for Birth Educators post is all about having a meaningful way to end your virtual childbirth class.  You can find all the Brilliant Activities for Birth Educators posts in the series by following this link.

Introduction

COVID or no COVID, people will continue to get pregnant and seek out childbirth classes in order to increase their knowledge and build their confidence as they prepare for labor, birth and the early parenting period.  Even though most classes are not meeting in person, families are sharing the experience of pregnancy in 2021 and still desire to build community, which is important as families make this major life transition.  As the childbirth educator, you can make their virtual childbirth class memorable by including a meaningful closing activity or two when the class is over and your time as a group is done.

A class photo

With the permission of all in attendance (those who do not want to participate can turn off their camera), take a class photo of everyone by grabbing a screenshot of the meeting platform in gallery view.  I like to invite them to hold their “baby” that they were using for practice during the newborn caring and lactation portions of their class.  Share this picture in a final email.  I know that if we were in person, I would have taken a group photo and this is a fun way to offer a similar experience.  People certainly enjoy this part of the closing activities.

A closing poem or story

Identify a short poem or essay to read aloud to the class before you send them off.  Pick your favorite piece that is encouraging and positive and speaks to the transitions that they will shortly be experiencing.  Include a copy of what you read in the closing email to them in case they would like to re-read it and reflect.

Favorite class segments

Ask each person to share the part of the class(es) that they found most helpful, most memorable or just plain fun.  This helps families to leave on a high note after a positive reflection and you can learn what was most meaningful to them.

A sweet video

Considering including a short but moving birth video that everyone can’t help smile about after watching.  Two of my favorites are “Happy Birth Day” and "Everyday Miracles," that I have shared here.  No doubt you also have your favorites as well.

Conclusion

Just because childbirth classes are virtual does mean that families are any less excited about participating and learning the skills  and information they need to have a satisfying childbirth experience.  Closing their class experience on a positive note, using some of the ideas that I have shared here is a great way to leave them wanting more.  How are you choosing to close your virtual childbirth classes?  Please let us know in the blog comments below.

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