The St. Joseph Health Department is offering classes on caring for children from newborns to toddlers through a new program called “Parent with Purpose.”

The Department said for a number of years the clinic has offered prenatal case management to pregnant women so they can learn about the resources available as their pregnancy proceeds. The clinic staff has also offered consultation and continuing education units through instruction at child care facilities in the community. The department said it’s expanding and combining these programs with the offering of “Parent with Purpose” to expectant or new families.

“Parent with Purpose” class sessions will focus on topics that have been identified through parents and care-givers as areas of interest. The title of the series acknowledges that parents have many decisions to make, and to remind new parents to take an active role in learning what is best for their growing baby. Parents will have the opportunity to gather information and speak to someone with education and experience.

“Parent with Purpose” class sessions will provide information on childhood development, illness prevention, parent health and wellness, and many more.

The sessions are held the second Tuesday of the month at 10:00 a.m. at the City of St. Joseph Health Department, 901 South 10th Street. Each session will last 30-60 minutes, depending on the topic as well as participant engagement and interaction.

Contact the City of St. Joseph Health Department to sign up for the next session, “Safe Sleep”, scheduled Tuesday, February 9th at 10:00 a.m. at the City of St. The series is open to the public. Reservations can be made by calling 816-271-4725.