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Program helps couples welcome baby, while keeping their relationship strong

  • Published
  • By Joyce Atlee
  • Family Advocacy Outreach Manager
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  The birth of a baby can be an exciting time, but it can also place strains on a couple's relationship. The more expectant parents can prepare for this major life-changing event, the more likely they are to successfully cope with the stress.

The Family Expectations Program can help. This program is offered free of charge in the local community. It is for couples who are expecting a baby or for new parents. Family Expectations is aimed at strengthening relationships, while welcoming a baby into a safe, happy home.

Family Expectations Workshop participants will learn:

· how to talk to each other, listen and be heard effectively, by developing positive communication skills.

· how to handle anger, stress and conflict.

· how to solve problems together.

· how to keep fun, friendship and intimacy in their relationship.

· how to keep their baby happy, healthy and safe, while building a supportive "nest" for their baby to grow and develop.

· how to work together as parents.

· how to strengthen the father-child bond and more.

Participating couples also earn "Crib Cash" by completing classes. Each class is worth a certain amount. For example, during Week 1, couples can earn $10 in Crib Cash, while Week 4 is worth $30. By completing all the workshop classes, a couple can earn a total of $150 in Crib Cash, which can then be then redeemed in the Family Expectations on-site "store" for baby items including diapers, toys and other items all the way up to high chairs and bassinettes.

Workshops total 30 classroom hours. Classes are held for three hours, one night per week for 10 weeks or for six hours each Saturday for five weeks. All classes are held in a casual, comfortable, "home-like" environment with couches and recliners, which offers a relaxing atmosphere in which to learn. Family Expectations is centrally located in Oklahoma City near the intersection of N.W. 63rd Street and Broadway Extension.

You may be eligible to sign up for Family Expectations if you are: willing to participate as a couple; married or in a committed relationship; 18 years of age or older; expecting a child or just had a baby (within three months.)

Couples who are interested in participating in Family Expectations can call the staff at 639-2054. They will then be scheduled for an appointment to visit Family Expectations and ask any questions about the program. Those who desire to join the program will complete the enrollment process and be assigned to a family support coordinator.

Family Expectations is part of Public Strategies, the same organization that provides Oklahoma Marriage Initiative's free relationship retreats and "Forever. For Real." couples workshops.