KEEPING BUSY

WHAT TO READ There is a wealth of information out there, but these titles cut to the chase with their expert, no-nonsense advice

THE BUMP CLASS: AN EXPERT GUIDE TO PREGNANCY, BIRTH AND BEYOND

By Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt The founders of The Bump Class have compiled this guide to fill you in on everything you need to know, with answers to any embarrassing questions you might have.

YOUR BABY, YOUR BIRTH: HYPNOBIRTHING SKILLS FOR EVERY BIRTH

By Hollie de Cruz This reassuring read from the hypnobirthing coach provides you with all the tools you need to prepare for a positive labour, with breathing techniques and more.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU’RE EXPECTING

By Heidi Murko At more than 600 pages, it’s not exactly a light read, but this bestselling tome will give you all the facts and advice you need to know during this special time.

THE EXPECTANT DAD’S HANDBOOK

By Dean Beaumont Everything that’s going on inside the womb is alien to him, so this book sets out to give reassurance, covering all areas from a father’s role during labour to life as a new dad.

Antenatal classes Give yourself a head start by learning about birth and parenthood, at the same time as making new friends

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Jersey long-sleeved T-shirt £59, isabellaoliver.com Pregnancy brings with it a world of newfound information, and a whole lot of baby paraphernalia. And it also often marks the blossoming of new friendships, most of which are formed through classes.

Your midwife is likely to recommend you go along to antenatal classes and breastfeeding workshops. The idea behind them is to not only help you prepare for your baby’s birth, but to give you the confidence and knowledge you need to look after and feed them. You’ll also be informed on all of the di erent birthing options available, helping you to create your own birth plan.

The type of class you go for is completely your choice, and you can do as many or as few as you feel are right for you. The most well-known paid-for classes are run by the NCT, but you might also choose local private classes, such as London-based The Bump Class. The cost of NCT classes depends on the type you choose, where you live and if you’re eligible for concessions, but typically start from around £124 for two people. NHS midwives also run their own free classes from 30 to 32 weeks, which take place at hospitals or children’s centres. These do tend to be held as larger groups, so they may focus on providing information, rather than encouraging participation.

Classes are a great way to make friends with other parents who are expecting around the same time. These friendships can be invaluable in those first few months.

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Tune in, chill out

These popular parenting podcasts share invaluable family advice, celebrity mum and dad experiences, and hilarious anecdotes that anyone raising little ones can relate to

HAPPY MUM, HAPPY BABY Author and mumof-three Giovanna Fletcher continues the motherhood conversation that began with her bestselling book of the same name. Her guests – including the Duchess of Cambridge – show solidarity by sharing their parenting highs and lows.

LOCKDOWN PARENTING HELL Like every parent, comedians Rob Beckett and Josh Widdecombe have found raising little ones during a pandemic tough. Opting to find the funny in the situation, they invite a celeb mum or dad to share their stories and strategies each episode.

THE PARENT HOOD

The Bump Class founders Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle have brought their life-saving tips, hints and impartial expert advice to the audio realm with this engaging podcast. From nits to reflux and everything in between, they’ve got you covered.

THE SCUMMY MUMMIES PODCAST With more than 3m downloads and an Edinburgh Fringe show under their belts, comedy mums Ellie Gibson and Helen Thorn have a strong following. Talking everything from pelvic floors to IVF, you can be sure of unvarnished truths and lots of humour.