Sept. 18 parents and parents-to-be gathered for the Bundles for Babies course offered through the Airmen & Family Readiness Center. This course is geared towards new or expecting parents who are seeking information regarding numerous topics from budgeting for an expanding family to choosing child care.

“The A&FRC offers Bundles for Babies and other services with the focus of enriching and improving the quality of individual and family life through knowledge and skills needed for effective living,” said Samuel Child of the 75th Force Support Squadron. “The A&FRC hosts Bundles for Babies every couple of months to provide support for all branches of active duty military families that are expecting a child. The program strives to increase the effectiveness of parenting skills through daily living, relating to others, coping with life events and realizing personal potential.”

Participants listened to a presentation covering topics such as preparing for a new baby, budgeting for your baby, car seat safety, childcare options, and how to handle marriage and parenting. New parents were particularly interested and surprised by the average costs of raising a child today. 

Bundles for Babies courses are funded through the Air Force Aid Society. Military families who participated went home with a “bundle” of baby goods valued at $75 for attending the class. Numerous brochures and pamphlets were also available for pick-up offering additional information about topics that were covered.

Coordinators of the class, including Samuel Child, enjoy hosting these events because of the valuable information that is given to parents. “Bundles for Babies is a very social and friendly atmosphere. There is time to mingle with other families, ask questions, play games and learn about additional resources.”

The next Bundles for Babies class will be held Nov. 14 from 1-4:30 p.m. For more information, or to RSVP for the upcoming Bundles for Babies class, call the A&FRC at 801-777-4681.