First Step, St. Joseph to offer ‘Happiest Toddler,’ Happiest Baby’ classes

With funding from the United Way of Greater St. Louis, Community Link’s First Step Early Learning & Family Support Program in Breese will begin offering two-hour “Happiest Toddler on the Block” classes at the HealthPlex at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese.

Sessions will be offered monthly and alternate with the two-hour “Happiest Baby on the Block” class, also at the HealthPlex.

“Happiest Toddler” classes are scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. July 26; 1 to 3 p.m. Aug. 30; and 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 27, all Mondays. “Happiest Baby” sessions are planned for 1 to 3 p.m. Aug. 16; 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 13, and 1 to 3 p.m. Oct. 18, also all Mondays. Additional dates will be announced.

Moms and dads with children ages one to four years old are encouraged to attend “Happiest Toddler;” new or expectant parents are invited to “Happiest Baby.” Either would be appropriate for anyone who cares for one or more infants or toddlers including daycare providers.

Classes are free; an optional DVD that includes class material is available for $15 (cash or check). For those unable to pay, scholarships covering the cost of training materials are available through a grant from Old Newsboys Day, a charitable project of the Suburban Journals of Greater St. Louis.

“Happiest Toddler” classes are based on the book, “The Happiest Toddler on the Block: How to Eliminate Tantrums and Raise a Patient, Respectful and Cooperative One- to Four-Year-Old,” by pediatrician Harvey Karp, MD. During the session, instructors will offer tips and techniques to help parents improve communication and reduce tantrums in their toddler.

“The material can help parents reduce the number of tantrums their child has every day,” said T. K. Elimon, First Step director. “If you’re struggling with your toddler’s tantrums, this provides some simple, easy to use techniques that are respectful and loving yet firm for communicating and negotiating with your child.”

“Happiest Baby” classes are based on the book, “The Happiest Baby on the Block: The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Baby Sleep Longer,” also by Dr. Karp. During the session, certified instructors will focus on understanding newborn behavior and offer strategies to sooth fussy babies.

“Parents and caregivers are provided a framework for understanding newborn behavior and strategies to soothe fussy babies,” Elimon said. “It solves the puzzle of what causes colic and answers the question on how parents can soothe their baby’s screams in minutes or less.”

Helen Essenpreis, hospital Women and Infants Center supervisor, said St. Joseph’s in Breese is pleased to support First Step in offering these two programs.

“Parents want to do the right thing and both provide helpful information,” Essenpreis said.

Space is limited and due to funding sources, Clinton County residents will receive priority.

For details, a class schedule or to register (requested), contact 526-5423 or e-mail Helen Essenpreis.