Prenatal and newborn health is an important subject 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. In addition, this year we welcomed a speaker from River Valley Behavioral Health who went over maternal mental health and what to do if feeling overwhelmed with a crying baby or in general post-partum.

The Baby Shower was open to all of Webster County’s expectant parents and parents with children up to one year old. Ten mothers (either expecting or had given birth in the last year), four partners, and other guests attended.

 The Q&A session allowed participants to ask questions to a local IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), Nurse Practitioner, and the River Valley Behavioral Health representative.  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 seven exhibitors from the tristate area with resources and giveaways. A light meal was served to the participants.

100% of the participants expressed appreciation and felt that they had all learned something new about caring for their new baby. They were given information on how to reach out and contact the health and mental health professionals if needed. Community partners and exhibitors were contacted for feedback and were complimentary and satisfied with the over-all success of the baby shower.