This week’s Chicago North Shore Moms‘ Small Business Spotlight features Highland Park mama, registered nurse, and leader in baby 101 classes on the North Shore via Newborn Prep 101, Lauren Pines!
Lauren knows babies. She’s got two adorable little ones at home and years of experience as a registered nurse in both OBGYN care and the NICU. Now she’s sharing her know-how with North Shore families through her Baby 101 classes, covering everything from Infant CPR to Newborn Prep – yes, even how to swaddle like a pro! Whether you’re a brand-new mama or just need a refresher, Lauren makes the early days of parenthood a whole lot less overwhelming.
We sat down with Lauren to chat about her background, her classes, and her mission to help parents feel confident and supported every step of the way. Welcome, Lauren!
Hi Lauren. Please introduce yourself. Where are you from originally? What city do you live in now? What brought you here?
Hi! My name is Lauren Pines. I was born and raised in Highland Park, IL and recently moved back here to raise my own family. My husband was also born and raised in Highland Park so we decided to move back to our hometown to give our kids the kind of community-centered upbringing we both had.
What are one or two fun facts to know about you?
I love to run and workout. One of my biggest accomplishments was running the Chicago Marathon with my brother. It was truly such a special experience!
What are your favorite local restaurants, hang out spots, day trips?
We love Abigail’s in Highland Park for date night – it’s cozy and the food is always incredible. For a casual family outing, Michael’s is a must for hot dogs and cheddar cheese fries. We also love hanging out at the food trucks in Ravinia on Thursday nights and listening to great music at Ravinia Festival during the summer.
Great list! What are you reading and watching?
Honestly, I’m not currently reading or watching anything; life’s been a little hectic lately! But I’m planning to carve out some time in the next few weeks to dive into a good book or finally start a new show.
What’s one piece of advice you’ve gotten that’s guided you? Maybe this ties into your line of work as a newborn prep specialist?
To always trust your gut-especially when it comes to your kids. No one knows them like you do. That reminder has helped me both as a mom and as a nurse, and it’s something I always pass along to the families I work with.
100% and sometimes we all need that reminder! Speaking of trusting your gut when it comes to your kids, tell us more about your Baby 101 classes.
I teach newborn education and safety classes through Newborn Prep 101, a group of nurses and healthcare professionals offering expert guidance to growing families. I have been teaching families for the past year on the North Shore and Chicagoland area.
Tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to start teaching newborn and safety prep classes.
I am a registered nurse with experience in both OBGYN care and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. After having kids of my own, I saw firsthand how overwhelming those early days can be – even with a medical background. We wanted to create a space where parents could get trusted, practical guidance in a relaxed and supportive environment.
What can families expect when they take one of your Infant & Child CPR or Newborn Prep classes?
Our Infant and Child classes are typically 1-1.5 hours long and include hands-on practice with a mannequin, and lots of time for Q&A. The Newborn Prep class is usually about 2 hours long and covers everything from diapering and swaddling to sleep safety and feeding basics. My goal is always to leave parents feeling empowered and ready to care for their newborn!
What are some of the most common concerns or questions you hear from new parents, and how do your classes help ease those worries?
A lot of parents worry about knowing what’s “normal,” how to handle emergencies, or simply how to care for their newborn when they bring them home. Our classes give them tools, knowledge, and confidence to trust their instincts and know when and how to get help if needed.
Tell us more about the Newborn Prep 101 group and how local families can benefit from your collective offerings?
Newborn Prep 101, is a collaborative of experienced nurses who offer CPR, and newborn education classes in the Chicagoland area. Our goal is to provide accessible, evidence-based education in a non judgemental space. We’re here to support parents before, during or after the baby arrives.
Finally, where do you typically offer your classes, and how can local families book a session with you?
I teach classes throughout the North Shore, including Highland Park and surrounding suburbs as well as in the city of Chicago. I offer in-home sessions as well. Booking is easy – you can visit www.newbornprep101.com or reach out to me directly 847-513-1045. And get more information on Instagram @newbornprep101
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Small Business Spotlight: All Smiles with Jess Ortega, Founder of Giggles Indoor Playspace!
Small Business Spotlight: Backyard Dreams Built Here: Meet Jake from Fenceworks
Carly Ubersox on “Honey-Do” to Done: How Honey Homes Simplified My Home Repairs
