JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
The Bundles for Babies" program sponsored by the Air Force Aid Society and the Airman and Family Readiness Center offers expecting parents classes and information on the basics of being new parents.
Bundles for Babies classes provide presentations from the Personal Financial Readiness Program, Family Advocacy Outreach, New Parent Support Program, and the health and wellness center that offer pertinent information to new and expecting parents.
Many questions new parents have can be answered since the topics covered include childcare, budgeting and saving for a new baby, how to soothe a crying baby, Shaken Baby Syndrome, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, car seat safety, and the importance of good health and nutrition for mother and baby - all topics can provide answers that can take some anxiety out of being a new parent.
"Our goal is to give parents an insight on what parenting is all about," said Diana Caicedo, AFRC community readiness technician. "We want parents to be prepared to handle their role as new parents and how to be responsible."
Parents can also learn useful tips about the importance of budgeting for their new addition as well as how to reduce some of the anxiety of being a new parent.
"The program also emphasizes the importance of budgeting the family income, staying out of debt, starting a savings account that can be used in emergencies, parenting skills, child safety and proper nutrition," said Ms. Caicedo. "We show them how to be price conscience shoppers and how the savings can add up."
The Bundles for Babies classes are open to all active duty Air Force personnel stationed at or living on Joint Base Andrews or those who are serviced by the JBA Military Personnel Flight. To be eligible for the Bundles for Babies program parents must be at least seven months pregnant or already have a baby that is under three months of age. The program is open to all ranks and is not limited to a first pregnancy.
Participants also receive a "baby bundle" from the AFAS at the conclusion of the class. The bundle contains infant clothes, blankets and basic needs.
For more information or to register for the class, call the AFRC at 301-981-7087.