BROODE members only · Winter 2026 · Bray
The Welcome to Parenthood Programme
Four Monday evenings with a BROODE midwife and the same small group of local parents, all due around the same time as you.
23 November – 14 December · 7–9pm · for parents due January to March 2027
This is where you find your village
Ask any parent about the friends who got them through the first year, and they'll often talk about the people they met at antenatal class.
You may have friends from school, college or work who are pregnant at the same time. But they might not live nearby, and they've known you for years. The friends you make now meet you as you are, without judgement, and they're going through exactly the same stage. They're also close enough to call round when the days feel long.
You'll see the same faces every week. By Christmas you'll have a group chat, a midwife who knows your name, and a village that's there when your baby arrives.
At a glance
- Four sessions: three in person in Bray, one online
- Each Monday, 7–8pm with your midwife, then an hour of social time to get to know your group
- Led by Corin Panton, BROODE midwife
- No more than 10 couples, all local and due around the same time
- Your own group WhatsApp
- €150 per couple, a BROODE member introductory rate (usually €200+)
- You may be able to claim it back on your health insurance, depending on your plan. We'll send you a receipt.
What we cover
Monday 23 November · Labour and birth
The signs of labour, when to call or go in, coping in early labour at home, positions, breathing and pain relief.
Monday 30 November · When plans change
Induction, planned and unplanned caesarean birth, recovery, and the questions to ask your care team.
Monday 7 December · Your newborn
Hands-on: holding, changing, bathing, cord care, safe sleep, settling, and when to get help.
Monday 14 December · Feeding and the fourth trimester (online)
Breastfeeding, formula and combination feeding, your recovery, your mental health, and a plan for the first weeks at home. Recorded in case your baby arrives early.
For BROODE members only. Please book with the same email address as your BROODE membership. Bookings from non-members will be refunded. Venue in Bray confirmed by email, with your WhatsApp group link, before the first session. Questions: amy@broode.ie
