Free Parenting Programs and Classes in Oakville

Parenting brings questions at every stage, whether you’re a first-time parent or you’ve been at this stage before. OPCC offers parenting classes, family resources, and ongoing parenting support to help parents, caregivers, and growing families feel informed and supported, no matter what challenges they face.

About Our Parenting Programs

Every family needs support – whether you’re a first-time parent navigating life with a newborn, adjusting to sibling relationships, toilet learning, or changes in daily family life. Our programs are designed to give you free access to practical information, supportive guidance, and opportunities to learn from the experts.

Our Parenting Classes and Workshops

Our classes include a mix of ongoing support, one-time sessions, and topic-based parenting. Programs may be offered in person or virtually, depending on the topic.

Drop-In Infant Feeding Support

This monthly drop-in program offers gentle, non-judgmental parenting support for families with questions about breastfeeding or chestfeeding, bottle feeding, introducing solids, and other feeding concerns. Facilitated by Truc Nguyen, a certified lactation consultant, these sessions are designed to give you a welcoming space to ask questions, share concerns, and get the reassurance you need and best of all, at no cost!

Sessions
October 9
November 13
December 11

Time: 10:00–11:30 a.m.
Location: NSR-Main, 461 North Service Rd. West, Unit 17

Please note
No registration is required.

Unpacking Motherhood: Perinatal Peer Mood Support

Unpacking Motherhood is a gentle, supportive drop-in program for mothers navigating pregnancy, postpartum changes, and early parenthood for children under 12 months. This group offers a warm, judgment-free space to connect with others, share experiences, and talk openly about emotional well-being during a time that can feel both meaningful and overwhelming. Whether you are looking for support, reassurance, or simply connection, you are welcome here.

Every Tuesday beginning November 3

Time: 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: NSR-Satellite, 481 North Service Road West, Unit 25

Please note
No registration is required.

Gather and Grow Together: Winter Planter Workshop

A little creativity, a little connection, and something just for the grown-ups!
Join OPCC EarlyON at Bulow’s Garden Centre for a relaxing morning designed for parents and caregivers. Enjoy some time for yourself, connect with others, and create a beautiful winter planter to take home. No green thumb required!

Thursday November 19

Registration beging Thursday November 5th at 12:30pm

Time: 9:30-11:00am
Location: Bulow’s Garden Centre, 2667 Lakeshore Road West, Mississauga

This program will take place outdoors, so there is a designated rain date of Thursday, November 26, 2026 should the program have to be postponed due to inclement weather.

Registration Coming Soon

Mindful Birth

Prepare for birth with greater confidence, calm and connection.

We are delighted to introduce Mindful Birth, a free five-week prenatal series led by experienced Childbirth Educator and full-spectrum Doula Charmaine Hinds.

This holistic series brings together mindful birth techniques, breathwork and practical comfort measures. Participants will explore ways to ease fear and anxiety, connect with their inner courage and create a personalized roadmap for birth.

Birthing individuals are encouraged to attend with a partner or trusted support person.

Sessions
Wednesday, November 4
Wednesday, November 11
Wednesday, November 18
Wednesday, November 25
Wednesday, December 2

Time: 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Location: Dundas Street EarlyON Child & Family Centre, 483 Dundas Street West, Unit 212

Please note: This is an adult-only series.

Thriving During the Holidays: A Parenting Workshop

The holiday season can bring special moments for families, along with busy schedules, changes in routine, and pressure to make everything feel “perfect.”
Join us for Thriving During the Holidays, a supportive parenting workshop about finding more joy, easing stress, and making space for what matters most to your family.
Together, we’ll explore practical ways to:
– Maintain familiar routines while allowing room for flexibility.
– Support children through holiday excitement and changes.
– Create simple, meaningful traditions that reflect your family’s values.
– Set realistic expectations and let go of the pressure to do it all.
– Find everyday opportunities for connection and calm.

And yes, we’ll talk about Elf on the Shelf, elaborate activities, and the feeling that you should be doing more. You don’t need to do it all to create meaningful memories.
This workshop offers space to pause, reflect, and approach the season with greater confidence—whatever the holidays look like for your family.

November 18

Time: 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Virtual

Can’t join us live? Register to receive the recording and watch when it works for you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Parenting Programs

Who are parenting and family support services for?

Parenting and family support services are for parents, caregivers, and families looking for guidance, information, or connection. Whether you are preparing for a new stage, managing a specific challenge, or simply looking for added parenting support, we’re here with the tools to help.

Do I need to register for parenting programs?

This depends on the program you’re looking to attend. Some parenting programs require registration, while others are offered as drop-in support. Details are listed under each program so you can review the format before attending.

An account is required to attend any and all OPCC programs.

Are parenting programs offered in-person or virtually?

Programs are offered in a variety of formats to meet the diverse needs of parents. Some parenting programs are offered virtually, and others are in person – please review the details when choosing your parenting program.

What if I cannot attend a virtual session live?

If you cannot attend a virtual session, we encourage you to still register. Our virtual programs are recorded, and recordings are shared with all registered participants after the session.

Do all parenting programs include children?

We try to offer as many programs as possible with support for parents and caregivers who need to bring their children, but that’s not always possible. We recommend reviewing the program details individually to see whether you can bring your children or not.

Who are these parenting programs for?

These parenting programs are for parents, parents-to-be, and caregivers looking for practical guidance, connection, and support. Topics are designed to reflect different stages of family life, from pregnancy and early parenthood to child development and everyday parenting questions.

How do I know which parenting class is right for me?

The best fit depends on your current stage, the questions you have, and the kind of support you are looking for. Some families want a focused parenting workshop on one topic, while others are looking for broader parenting support through a class or group program. If you need assistance choosing a program, feel free to contact us.

Are there programs for new and expecting parents?

Absolutely! We’ve catered programs specifically for those experiencing pregnancy, postpartum, infant feeding, and the transition into parenthood. These sessions help families access support early and feel more prepared for the changes that come with a new baby.

Can I get support beyond a single class or workshop?

Yes. In addition to scheduled parenting classes and parenting workshops, families can also access broader parenting support through OPCC. For more information, please visit our Family Support Services page.

Can I get one-on-one family support?

Yes. Families can access one-on-one support from our Family Resouces Coordinator when they need more individualized guidance, help talking through concerns, or support finding the right next step. This can help when a family wants something more personal than a group program or workshop. To learn more, please contact our Family Resources Coordinator.

Can you help me find family resources outside of OPCC?

Yes. We can help connect families with family resources and community-based services beyond OPCC when additional support may be helpful. This can make it easier to find trusted information, outside services, and supports that match your family’s situation. For individualized support, we recommend contacting our Family Resource Coordinator; for more general questions you can contact our customer service team.

Need help choosing a program?

Our team is available to answer your questions and help you find the right fit for your child and family. Whether you’re comparing options, looking for family programs Oakville families recommend, or trying to decide which program matches your child’s stage, we’re here to help!