K-State Extension is pleased to announce the continued offering of Becoming a Mom®/Comenzando bien®, a comprehensive prenatal education program serving families in both Ellis County and Barton County. In Ellis County classes begin February 19, 2026. Classes in Barton County will begin April 1. These sessions are available free of charge to all area families.
The program is made possible through strong regional partnerships with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment Bureau of Family Health and March of Dimes In Ellis County toher partners include First Care Clinic, High Plains Mental Health, Early Childhood Connections, Hays Public Library, Feeding Hays, KidLink DSNWK, Jana’s Campaign, Prospectively Healthy, Ellis County Emergency Medical Services. Together, these partners are committed to supporting expectant parents and improving maternal and infant health outcomes across both counties.
Using the evidence-based March of Dimes Becoming a Mom®/Comenzando bien® curriculum, participants and their chosen support person(s) will receive education on physical and emotional health during pregnancy, labor and delivery, infant feeding, infant care, safe sleep, and other timely parenting topics. Each session also connects families with local resources and service providers who support expectant parents and families with young children, helping participants build relationships and awareness of available supports within their own communities.
“I’m incredibly excited about the dedicated instructors and community partners who have come together to bring Becoming a Mom to families in both Ellis and Barton counties,” said Monique Koerner with the Cottonwood Extension District. “Our goal is to create a welcoming space where parents can connect, learn from one another, and feel supported—not only during pregnancy, but well beyond.”
Discussions within the Ellis County Breastfeeding Coalition also helped shape the program’s focus on mentorship and relationship-building, while involvement from partners across both counties ensures families are personally introduced to the professionals and organizations available to support them. This collaborative approach is designed to make it easier for families to seek help when they need it most.
Becoming a Mom® has a strong track record of success across Kansas. Since 2010, program evaluations conducted through the Kansas Perinatal Community Collaborative model have shown significant improvements in pregnancy and birth outcomes, including reduced rates of preterm birth and low birth weight, higher breastfeeding initiation rates, and lower cesarean rates.
All pregnant women in Ellis and Barton counties are encouraged to attend, regardless of previous pregnancy or parenting experience. Mothers, fathers, and support people are welcome at each class. Participants may choose which sessions to attend, with larger incentives—examples may include a portable crib or infant playmat—available for those who attend at least four of the six classes. Incentives are provided through grants made available by KDHE.
In Ellis County, limited childcare will be available, and a free meal will be provided by Feeding Hays. Families interested in the Ellis County sessions can obtain a class schedule or register by contacting Monique Koerner at the Cottonwood Extension District at [email protected] or 785-628-9430. Additional information is available online at https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/becoming-a-mom/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/KSREcottonwood.
Becoming a Mom® is also offered in Barton County through the Barton County Health Department. Parents in Barton County can call 620-793-1902 to learn more about class offerings and registration options.
Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or [email protected]
K-State Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.