Supporting Parents in the Gorge: A Free Weekly Education & Support Series
These classes are part of a free, 10-week educational series taught with Michelle Gerbi, DC, IBCLC, PMH-C; Leah Cain, LCSW, PMH-C; Ami Burnham, LDM, RN, IBCLC; and Hannah Freeman, and hosted by Gorge Lactation & Wellness in partnership with the Columbia Gorge Perinatal Mental Health Initiative.
When: Wednesdays, January 28 through March 18, from 2:45–4:00 PM
Where: Center for Vibrant Living, 1029 May Street, Hood River, Oregon
Cost: Free and drop-in. No RSVP or registration required. Parents are welcome to attend one class, a few classes, or the entire series.
Tummy Time — Why It Matters & How to Make It Easier
Date: January 28 | With Michelle Gerbi
Tummy time supports head control, core strength, coordination, and early motor development, while also helping reduce head flattening. In this class, we’ll talk about what tummy time is really doing for your baby, how to fit it into daily life, and how to adapt it for babies who struggle or protest. You’ll leave with realistic strategies, reassurance, and a better understanding of how small, consistent efforts can support healthy movement development over time.
All the Feelings: Emotional and Identity Changes After Baby
Date: February 4 | With Leah Cain, LCSW, PMH-C
Many new parents experience shifts in mood, increased worry, or intrusive and distressing thoughts while navigating a new sense of identity. This workshop provides education about common emotional experiences in the postpartum period, helps distinguish what is typical and when additional support may be helpful, and offers guidance on accessing resources and care. We’ll explore shifts in identity and create a supportive space for reflection, discussion, and shared experience.
Breastfeeding 101 — All of the Basics and Then Some…
Date: February 11 | With Ami Burnham
Many breastfeeding challenges are common and fixable with the right support. In this class, we’ll talk through why issues like engorgement, supply concerns, and feeding discomfort happen, and what tends to help. Whether you’re newly postpartum or navigating ongoing feeding questions, this session offers practical tools, reassurance, and supportive, judgment-free education.
Sharing Your Birth Story — A Supportive Space to Reflect and Share
Date: February 18 | With Leah Cain, LCSW, PMH-C
While childbirth is a universal experience, it is also deeply personal. Sharing birth stories can be a meaningful part of processing and healing, helping to build understanding, reduce isolation, and create a sense of community among participants.
Participants will be guided through gentle prompts to explore their birth story and will have the opportunity to share, if they choose. A supportive space to reflect and share.
Tongue Tie — What the Evidence Says & How It Can Affect Feeding
Date: February 25 | With Michelle Gerbi
Tongue tie can impact feeding for some babies, but not every tongue tie needs intervention. We’ll review what current research shows, how tongue tie may present during breastfeeding or bottle feeding, and how to think through next steps in a thoughtful, informed way. This class emphasizes clarity over fear, helping parents feel confident and supported in their decisions.
Water Without Fear — Building Safe Foundations with Babies
Date: March 4 | With Hannah Freeman
In this demonstration-based session, caregivers will see how to apply the principles of Bonds of Water during real-life moments like bath time. We’ll explore foundational holds, movements, and rhythms that help babies feel secure, supported, and connected in water, while also discussing early water safety and confidence.
Held in Water — Early Bonds, Safety & Connection
Date: March 11 | With Hannah Freeman
Using the framework of Bonds of Water, this class explores how early water experiences shape a baby’s sense of safety, body awareness, and connection with caregivers. Drawing on over 25 years of experience working with babies and families in the water, this session is designed to help caregivers feel informed, calm, and confident as they begin their child’s relationship with water.
Introducing Solids — Allergies, Gut Health & Getting Started
Date: March 18 | With Ami Burnham
Introducing solid foods supports oral development, nutrition, and the developing immune system. We’ll cover readiness signs, timing, textures, allergen introduction, and how early feeding choices connect to gut health. This class is designed to take the pressure off, offering practical guidance you can actually use along with plenty of time for questions.