Become the voice that helps parents feel strong, informed, and ready
Parents often arrive at childbirth classes carrying a mix of excitement and uncertainty. They want clear information. They want honest answers. Most of all, they want to understand what lies ahead.
The BabyMatters Childbirth Educator Workshop prepares you to guide families through pregnancy and birth education with clarity, structure, and respect for their decision-making. This training is designed for people who enjoy teaching, explaining complex ideas in accessible ways, and helping others approach important life events with confidence.
Whether you are beginning a new professional path or expanding your work in birth or healthcare, this workshop provides the foundation to become a thoughtful and effective childbirth educator.
Perhaps this idea has been growing for a while
You care about how parents prepare for the arrival of their baby.
You’ve noticed how much misinformation and fear can surround pregnancy and labor.
You know education can change the way families approach the experience.
And at the same time, you may be wondering:
- How do I teach birth in ways families actually understand?
- What information should parents truly know before labor begins?
- How do I keep a classroom engaged while covering serious topics?
- What does it take to become a professional childbirth educator?
- How do I turn my interest in teaching into meaningful work?
Many educators begin with a simple observation.
When families understand what is happening and what their options are, everything about birth can feel more manageable. This workshop prepares you to guide those conversations with knowledge and confidence.
“I loved how open for discussion/questions the class was. The hands-on learning portion were our favorites.” – Childbirth Education Student
What a childbirth educator provides
A childbirth educator helps families prepare mentally, emotionally, and physically for pregnancy, labor, birth, and early parenting.
Through structured classes and thoughtful discussion, educators translate complex medical information into practical knowledge parents can use.
At BabyMatters, childbirth educators learn to:
- explain pregnancy and labor in clear, approachable language
- help families understand their options and make informed choices
- guide discussions about comfort techniques and birth preferences
- create welcoming learning environments where parents feel safe asking questions
- support partners and support people in understanding their role
A childbirth educator does more than present information.
They help families approach birth with preparation instead of fear.
Why preparation matters for families
Birth is one of life’s most significant experiences, yet many families approach it with very little understanding of what to expect.
Thoughtful education can change that.
When parents learn how pregnancy and labor unfold, they often feel more confident navigating decisions and communicating with their care team.
Preparation helps families:
- understand the physical process of labor
- recognize common interventions and their alternatives
- support one another more effectively during labor
- approach birth with greater calm and confidence
Education does not remove uncertainty from birth.
But it helps families walk into the experience feeling informed and capable.
What you’ll explore in this training
Foundations of childbirth education
You begin by exploring the purpose and responsibilities of childbirth education and the educator’s role in preparing families.
Principles of adult learning
You learn how adults absorb information and how to structure classes that keep participants engaged and involved.
Pregnancy and the physiology of labor
We walk through anatomy, pregnancy changes, and the stages of labor in ways that can be clearly explained to expectant parents.
Birth options and medical interventions
You learn how to present common procedures and medical choices with balanced, evidence-based information.
Comfort measures and preparation strategies
You practice demonstrating techniques that help families prepare physically and emotionally for labor.
Building inclusive learning environments
We discuss how to create classes that welcome families from many backgrounds and experiences.
Listening and communication skills
You develop ways to guide discussions, answer difficult questions, and support respectful dialogue.
Professional foundations
We review class planning, responsibilities, and practical considerations for developing a childbirth education practice.
Certification and next steps
You leave with a clear understanding of how to continue toward ICEA Childbirth Educator Certification.
A thoughtful approach to teaching birth
This workshop is designed to build both skill and sound judgment. Teaching about birth requires both knowledge and care.
Debbie’s approach focuses on helping educators explain complex topics in ways that feel approachable and empowering for families.
Students are encouraged to ask questions, practice teaching concepts, and explore real-life situations that arise in childbirth classes.
The goal is not simply to deliver information. The goal is to prepare educators who can guide families with clarity, respect, and thoughtful preparation.e.
About Debbie
Debbie has spent decades teaching, mentoring, and supporting families and birthworkers.
She brings lived experience, humility, and deep respect for this work.
Students often describe Debbie’s teaching style as calm, practical, and welcoming. She has a way of breaking down complex ideas so they feel manageable and clear.
That is the heart of BabyMatters.
How the workshop works
In-Person Workshops
Length: 3 full days
Teaching style: Hands-on, interactive learning with real-time discussion, shared practice, and supportive connection in the room.
Materials: Student workbook provided
Certification: This workshop is one requirement for the ICEA Chidlbirth Education Certification.
Virtual Workshops
Length: 20 hours of class split into 4-6 sessions.
Teaching style: Guided, well-paced learning with clear explanations, space for questions, and steady support throughout.
Materials: Digital Workbook provided
Certification: This workshop is one requirement for the ICEA Chidlbirth Education Certification.
Investment
In-Person
- $800 Early Bird
- $950 Standard Rate
Virtual
- $600 Early Bird
- $700 Standard Rate
If you would like to host a workshop in your community, our Sponsor/Host Guide explains how to bring a training to your area. You may also contact debbie@babymatters.org for more information
The Pathway to Certification
This workshop fulfills the education requirement for ICEA Childbirth Educator Certification.
The certification process typically includes:
- Completing the workshop
- Enrolling with ICEA (can be done before workshop)
- Reviewing the study guide and required readings
- Observing one childbirth class and three births
- Completing an evaluated teaching series
- Passing the certification exam
You will leave the workshop with a clear understanding of these steps and how to move forward.
Explore the BabyMatters Training Paths
Families need support in many ways throughout pregnancy, birth, and the early weeks with a new baby. BabyMatters prepares professionals for several different roles within that journey.
Birth Doula Workshop
Learn to provide steady, continuous support during labor and birth.
Best for people who want to be present with families in the birth room.
→ Learn more about Birth Doula Training
Postpartum Doula Workshop
Support families during the first weeks after birth as they adjust to life with a newborn.
Best for those who enjoy nurturing care and practical home support.
→ Learn more about Postpartum Doula Training
Birth Doula + Childbirth Educator Training
Combine labor support and teaching preparation in one pathway.
Best for those who want to both teach families during pregnancy and support them through birth.
→ Learn more about the Dual Training
What Past Students Share
“The best part was the wealth of knowledge we gained.”
“We also enjoyed the first hard experiences provided by the instructor.”
“Debbie deftly combined an immensely diverse group and create a non-judgemental, inclusive, collaborative environment”
Common questions
Do I need experience?
No. This workshop is designed for beginners and returning caregivers.
Is this certification?
This workshop begins your path toward ICEA certification and provides clear next steps.
What if I feel nervous?
That’s normal. This is a learning space designed to support you.
What if I’m not sure yet?
You don’t need certainty. You’ll gain clarity through learning.
Education shapes how families experience birth
When families understand what is happening in pregnancy and labor, they often approach the experience with greater confidence and less fear.
Childbirth educators play an important role in that preparation.
If you feel drawn to teaching, explaining, and helping families approach birth with knowledge and calm understanding, the BabyMatters Childbirth Educator Workshop offers a thoughtful place to begin.