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Parents learn a bundle, earn a bundle

  • Published
  • By Maj. Angela O'Connell
  • Air Mobility Command Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Fairchild's Airman and Family Readiness Center hosted a Bundles for Babies class Aug. 21. Fifteen expecting parents and grandparents attended the event to learn everything from budgeting to dental care.

Although it's an afternoon packed with speakers from the Woman, Infants and Children Program, Family Advocacy, the Community Health Nurse, tours of the A&FRC and tips on saving money, there was still plenty of time for games, prizes and cupcakes to lighten the mood.

"It shares all the resources available for families," said Melissa Still, Airman and Family Readiness Center community readiness consultant. "There are so many resources out there and new young families don't always know about them."

Priscilla Godfrey attended with her daughter-in-law while her son is deployed.

"This is excellent for young mothers who are often lonely with their spouses away," she said.

Family advocacy briefed the parents on their services to include:

- Counseling on fetal growth
- Physical and emotional changes
- Labor and delivery education
- Post-partum care for mom
- Newborn care
- Potential pre-term labor issues
- Safety
- Breast-feeding

They also highlighted the water babies class for parents with children 8 weeks to 3 years old held Tuesdays at 11 a.m., at the indoor pool on base for $1.

"We meet in the water, we sing songs and we encourage parent and child interaction," said Susanna Dodd, 92nd Medical Group family advocacy. "It gives a chance for moms and babies to socialize."

Additionally, Family Advocacy hosts a "boot camp" for new dads that meets the third Friday of each month at 1 p.m. at the base chapel. This is taught by veteran dads and teaches swaddling, calming and feeding baby, supporting moms, common fears, and finance.

Lauren Nichols, A&FRC personal financial counselor, briefed parents on where they could find low-cost and free items. She provided participants with a hands-on demonstration on how to make baby wipes and gave other examples to help find extra money in their budgets.

"The little precious ones don't have to cost you a bundle," she said. "Remember to relax, get out of the house and sleep."

Once the class portion was complete, the parents were treated to a tour of the center and the Airman's Attic which proved to be eye-opening for the spouses.

"It is nice to know that other services are available," said Dawn Bata, a civil engineer spouse expecting her first child.

At the end of the afternoon, parents received a free "bundle" from the Air Force Aid Society including items like bedding, onesies, burp cloths, bibs and bath sets.

The Air Force Aid Society sponsors these classes throughout the Air Force.

"The Air Force Aid Society is here to help families in crisis," said Still. "They want you to be successful."

Attendees of the class left with their arms full of items and brains full of information.