What to Do on Maternity and Paternity Leave: Make the Most of Your Time with Baby

By Stuart Childress, the Heybrook

Maternity leave and paternity leave are incredibly special (and sometimes overwhelming) chapters. Whether you’re adjusting to life with your first baby or juggling a toddler and a newborn, this period is about healing, bonding, learning, and slowly finding your rhythm.

At The Heybrook, we know how transformative this time can be—and how important it is to have support, connection, and a space where you feel like you again. That’s why we created a place where new parents can find community, expert guidance, and the amenities that make life with a baby easier.

Here’s how to make the most of your parental leave—with help from The Heybrook every step of the way.

1. Bond with Your Baby—In and Out of the House

Early bonding is the foundation of your baby’s development and your relationship together. At The Heybrook, we offer plenty of opportunities to support that connection:

• Parent-baby development classes that support attachment through movement, music, and play

• Baby-wearing help from certified specialists to keep your baby close while freeing your hands

• A welcoming lounge with bouncers, changing tables, and cozy spots to feed or rest

You can spend time together at home, but when you're ready to get out, The Heybrook is a gentle and supportive place to be.

2. Rest, Recover, and Let Us Make It Easier

Whether you gave birth or not, postpartum recovery takes time—and rest is crucial. We make it easier for you to rest by handling the little things:

• Clean, beautiful spaces that don’t feel like dingy basements or overstimulating play gyms

• Free coffee and tea, soft seating, natural light, and plenty of space to spread out

• A ground-floor entrance and easy, free parking so you don’t have to haul a stroller up stairs or circle the block looking for a spot

You don’t have to worry about packing perfectly or showing up right on time. Our staff is here to greet you, help you settle in, and make sure you have what you need.

3. Find Your People in Parent-Baby Groups

Maternity and paternity leave can feel isolating—especially if you’re home during the day while others are working. That’s why The Heybrook offers weekly parent-baby groups where you’ll:

• Build relationships with other parents who "get it"

• Get answers and guidance from pediatric and parenting experts

• Be welcomed just as you are—whether you’re showered and on time or showing up late with spit-up on your sweater

We recommend coming weekly and trying to stick with the same time slot so those connections can grow over time.

4. Explore Local Outings Without the Stress

Leaving the house during leave can feel like a production. But not when you’re coming to The Heybrook.

• We’ve got a lounge you can come early or stay late in, so you're never rushed

• Need to feed, change, or bounce your baby to sleep? No problem—our amenities are made for it

• Want to meet another parent for a low-key hangout? The Heybrook makes that easy, too

You don’t have to worry if your baby cries. Everyone here gets it.

5. Get Expert Support—Without a Dozen Separate Appointments

New babies come with a lot of questions. Instead of booking consultations all over town, let us connect you with the support you need under one roof:

• Lactation consultants and feeding support

• Sleep experts to help guide gentle routines

• Baby-wearing specialists and postpartum doulas

• A provider directory to help you find trusted professionals like chiropractors, therapists, and more

Plus, drop-in expert sessions and workshops are available throughout the week—and most are discounted or included for members.

6. Build Your Parenting Foundation—Together

Whether you’re parenting solo or with a partner, maternity and paternity leave are great times to align on the kind of family you want to be.

At The Heybrook, we encourage you to bring your partner, nanny, grandparents, or anyone involved in caregiving to any class or support group. We believe:

• Everyone deserves to feel confident and capable

• Parenting should be shared equitably whenever possible

• Your whole support system benefits when they have access to expert resources

7. Create a Village You Can Count On

The Heybrook isn’t just a place to go—it’s a place to belong.

• Stay after class and chat with other parents

• Attend our monthly community circles for meaningful conversation and support

• Get to know our front desk and class staff—we’ll remember your name, your baby, and check in on how you're really doing

It’s so much easier to do this when you don’t feel alone.

Your Time, Your Way—with The Heybrook by Your Side

Whether you’re asking What do I do with all this time? or How am I going to get through this week?, The Heybrook is here to help you feel supported, seen, and surrounded—during leave and beyond.

This is your time to bond, grow, and settle into your new life. Let us be your go-to resource and your safe landing spot. Whether you join for a class, support group, or just to hang in the lounge, we can’t wait to welcome you.

Want help making a plan for your maternity or paternity leave? Reach out or stop by The Heybrook—we’re here when you're ready.