Prenatal and newborn health is an important topic for Webster County residents. There are many soon to be parents and new parents who seek out resources on topics such as feeding, changing, car seat safety, and overall health of their children. 

In response to the above issues, Webster County Cooperative Extension, alongside FRYSC and Early Childhood Council, held the World’s Greatest Baby shower. The baby shower was a free educational, informative and interactive program for expectant mothers and guests. The program covered such topics as feeding, what to expect physically after bringing baby home from the hospital with mom and baby, benefits information, resources to contact for help, and much more.

The Baby Shower was open to all of Webster County’s expectant parents and parents with children up to one year old. Eight mothers (either expecting or had recently given birth), one father, and seven guests attended. 

 The Q&A session allowed participants to ask questions to a local IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), Nurse Practitioner, and benefits representative from Kynector.  In addition to expert advice there were opportunities to win valuable and useful door prizes such as diapers, newborn care kits, car seats, strollers, and more. There were five exhibitors from the tristate area with resources and giveaways. A light meal was served to the participants.

The post program evaluations showed that 100% of the participants learned something new and indicated useful information was given. Community partners and exhibitors were contacted for feedback and were complimentary and satisfied with the over-all success of the baby shower.