I'm not a single or young mother and I'm not facing an unexpected pregnancy. Can I still register?

The short answer is: no. We have in the past welcomed any family to register for our classes. Unfortunately as the program has grown we have exceeded our capacity and find ourselves turning away many families who truly need our free services. Many people seek us out based on positive word of mouth and our reputation for fun, informative classes, but please consider whether or not you truly meet the criteria for need before registering for class. If you can afford to pay even $75 for a childbirth class, we encourage you to seek out other resources in our community so that we can continue to serve those who most need our services.

If I miss a class can I make it up?

Unfortunately, no. All of our classes are filled to room capacity and each has a waiting list. We simply do not have any room in a different series to allow you to make up the class. Very rarely we are able to get every one off a waiting list and have a spot available for a makeup but it is highly unlikely. Please make your best effort to attend the classes you are registered for and let your teacher know if you will be absent. She can provide some basic "homework" for you to catch up on the content you missed.

I'm on the waiting list for a class, when will I know if I am able to get in?

Tickets are released in two groups. The first group is released 1-2 weeks before the class start date. A second group of tickets is released after the third week of class (prior to the classes on labor and birth). All tickets are released via email, with a limited time to respond. You are welcome to contact your instructor at any time to ask the status of the waitlist.

Where are classes held?

Classes are held at the Pregnancy Resource Center at 4310 Hoyt Avenue in Everett. The closest major cross-street is 41st & Rucker. Our building is one story with taupe siding and white pillars. Click here for a map.

What do I have to do to qualify for classes?

1. Be pregnant! 2. Be a single or teen mother or facing an unexpected pregnancy. We have no specific income requirements. There is no special application or approval process. We rely on the honor system and encourage only those who could not otherwise afford childbirth education to register.

Are the classes really free?

Yes! We promise our classes are completely free of charge (and there is no sales pitch for anything either!). All of the services offered by the Pregnancy Resource Center are privately funded by individual donors and local churches. We are a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women facing unexpected pregnancies and we also welcome any family who may benefit from our free services.

What are classes like?

Our classes are each two hours long with a short break in the middle. Class starts and ends promptly. Our curriculum blends practical information with interactive group work. Instructors strive to make class an enjoyable place to be.

Do you provide childcare?

Unfortunately we do not provide childcare and we are not able to accommodate children in the classroom. Please secure your own child care arrangements.

Can I bring someone with me to class?

YES! We strongly encourage you to bring at least one partner to every class whether it is your boyfriend, husband, family member or friend. Please choose a partner who you can depend on to be kind, patient and helpful through your labor and postpartum.

What do I need to bring to class other than my partner?

We recommend that you bring pillows with you for your personal comfort while sitting and to use for relaxation exercises. You are welcome to bring beverages and/or food as long as they are not distracting during class. We will provide a class handbook but it is recommended that you consider buying our textbook "Pregnancy, Childbirth & the Newborn" by Penny Simkin. You can usually find it at Half Price Books for around $5.

I'm definitely having/not having an epidural, are these classes for me?

Absolutely! Our curriculum is evidence based and unbiased. We are here to give you all the information you need so that you can make your own informed decisions. A large portion of class time is devoted to labor coping skills which are essential even if you decide to have medications. We receive referrals from many local midwives and obstetricians because they know their patients will receive a balanced education that prepares them to approach labor with confidence no matter where or how they choose to give birth. Our motto is: "Freedom of choice based on knowledge of alternatives."