The first 40 days:
Planning for a calm, rested postpartum
In person session: Saturday 28 February at Kin Wellbeing, Crystal Palace, 2-3.30pm
Online session: Saturday 21 March, 2-3.30pm (recording available)
You’ve read the books.
You’ve thought about the birth.
You’ve probably bought more tiny outfits than you’d like to admit.
But almost no one talks honestly about the weeks after your baby is born.
The fourth trimester is a time of enormous transition.
Your body is recovering from birth. Your hormones are shifting.
Your baby is adjusting to life outside the womb.
And yet, many new parents are sent off with little guidance beyond “you’ll work it out.”
This session is designed to help you and your birth partner walk into the fourth trimester feeling informed, grounded, and supported—not blindsided.
We’ll explore what’s normal in the early weeks, including:
Newborn behaviour in the first trimester—sleep, feeding, crying, and closeness
What to expect for the new mother: exhaustion, emotional shifts, and the realities of physical recovery
Why these experiences aren’t signs that something is wrong, but part of a profound adjustment
Alongside this understanding, we’ll focus on how to care for yourself and your family at this stage, including:
Why rest and low stimulation are essential—not optional—after birth, and how to get them
Creating a quieter, slower rhythm in a culture that pushes productivity, using cross-cultural comparison to illustrate
Simple, nourishing ways to support healing, bonding, and nervous system regulation
Letting go of unrealistic timelines and “shoulds” in favor of what actually supports wellbeing
This isn’t about memorising information or doing things perfectly. Once we’re informed about this stage and have shifted our mindset towards rest and recovery, we can take steps towards a softer, more supported beginning for your new family.
You’ll come away with a clearer idea of what to expect, your preferences for this time and a solid plan for your postnatal period. You’ll get a handout with some key-takeaways to refer back to.
Come learn what’s normal, protect your rest, and create a calmer landing for your new family.
This session is for you if:
You’re expecting a baby and want to feel prepared without feeling overwhelmed
You value rest, nervous system support, and calm beginnings
You want realistic, compassionate information about the early weeks
This session may not be for you if:
You’re looking for strict schedules or want to promote routines or independence in your newborn
Is this just for first-time parents?
No—while first-time parents often find it especially helpful, anyone wanting a calmer, more supported fourth trimester will benefit from the session.
Is this antenatal education?
This session includes education, but it’s not a traditional antenatal class. As well as looking at the needs of newborns and new parents in postpartum, we’ll take time to explore our own expectations, preferences and coping mechanisms after birth.
Will this tell me exactly what to do with my baby?
No rigid rules or schedules. The goal is more understanding newborn needs so you can respond with confidence and care.
Can partners or support people attend?
Partners and support people are warmly encouraged, as their understanding plays a big role in protecting rest and recovery. You are also very welcome to come by yourself.
About your host
I’m Chloe and I’ve been a postnatal doula for seven years. I have two children of my own, and after two very different postpartum experiences, I know first-hand the difference being prepared and supported at this stage makes. I love working as a doula and helping families navigate this time, and this session is one I wish I’d received as a parent-to-be. I’m really excited to share this information and help you feel resourced as you move towards the newborn days.
If you’re local to SE London: I’ve lived in Crystal Palace for 11 years, my kids go to school here and I love the area and the amazing things it offers for young families. There’s a lot of great resources to tap into, and I’m always happy to share contacts for pregnancy, birth and beyond.