Size

• Class size can determine the outcome; smaller classes allow for more in-depth topic coverage, but larger classes might stick to a more rigid outline. When there are only a few parents in a class, the instructor will have more time to answer questions and address concerns. A larger class might not have the time to answer each question or explore extra topics not listed in the curriculum.
  
  

Instructor

• The instructor plays a vital role in the outcome of a prenatal class: personal philosophy, education, experience and teaching instruction all factors into the class. In many cases, the instructor devises the curriculum, so certain things you want to know might not be addressed. Bring up questions and concerns about the instructor and the class before beginning.
  
  

Curriculum

• The curriculum affects the class outcome because each might be different. Instructors have different methods and might introduce varying materials. Some basic ideas, like feeding a baby and prenatal care, probably will be addressed in each class, but more in-depth instruction such as birthing methods will vary by instructor.
  
  

Length

• The length of the class potentially affects the outcome. Prenatal classes that last an entire day or weekend might fit better for people with limited weekday schedules. However, short classes that expand over several weeks provide participants the chance to reflect on each class' lessons and provide the opportunity for questions and concerns to be addressed.
  
  

Participants

• Class participants can affect how a prenatal class turns out. Parents that get involved with the activities and interact with the instructor might turn out far different than a class with too many distractions. Participants that are unprepared, leave their cell phones on or bring other children might make it difficult for others to learn during the class.
  
  

Location

• Classes set in hospitals or birthing centers are more formal and typically follow stricter guidelines. Some parents might elect to have a class taught in the privacy of their home. Home classes give parents the ability to interact one-on-one with the instructor and bring up personal or intimate birthing details. Hospital classes offer involvement with other parents --- and in some cases, support groups.