How to Find Your Teaching Style as a Childbirth Educator
When you first start teaching childbirth classes, it’s tempting to believe there’s only one “right” way to do it. Maybe you picture yourself standing at the front of the room with slides, repeating exactly what your trainer said.
But here’s the truth: parents don’t come to your class just for information. They come for you.
Your teaching style shapes how parents experience your class. It determines whether they walk away overwhelmed, reassured, or genuinely excited about birth. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common teaching styles, how to find your natural approach, and why leaning into your style is the best thing you can do for your students and your business.
Why Your Teaching Style Matters
Think back to a favorite teacher in your life. Chances are, it wasn’t only what they taught — it was how they taught it. The same is true for childbirth education.
Connection builds trust. Parents are more likely to absorb and act on information when it’s delivered in a way that feels safe and relatable.
Style shapes the learning environment. A science-driven class feels very different from an interactive coaching session or a story-rich workshop.
Confidence comes from alignment. Teaching in a way that feels natural allows you to relax, connect, and shine — instead of trying to copy someone else’s energy.
👉 In other words, your teaching style is not a side note. It’s the core of what makes your classes effective and memorable.
Common Teaching Styles in Childbirth Education
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but most educators fall into (or blend) one or more of these styles:
1. The Storyteller
This educator uses real-life birth stories — their own or from clients (with permission) — to bring concepts to life.
Strengths: Parents remember stories better than facts. Stories normalize different birth outcomes and reduce fear.
Watch out for: Stories should support your teaching points, not take over the class.
2. The Coach
This style is all about hands-on practice. The Coach gets parents and partners up and moving, trying out positions, practicing breathing, and role-playing.
Strengths: Builds real confidence. Parents leave feeling prepared, not just informed.
Watch out for: Some families may need more information first — balance coaching with context.
3. The Scientist
This educator thrives on evidence, data, and physiology. They lean on charts, diagrams, and research to explain how birth works.
Strengths: Appeals to parents who want the “why” behind everything. Boosts credibility.
Watch out for: Too much data can overwhelm. Simplify without dumbing down.
4. The Nurturer
This style creates a safe, calm space. The Nurturer listens deeply, validates feelings, and reassures parents they’re not alone.
Strengths: Builds emotional trust and group connection.
Watch out for: Balance emotional support with concrete, actionable information.
5. The Entertainer
The Entertainer brings humor, energy, and creativity. Classes are lively, interactive, and fun.
Strengths: Keeps people engaged and relaxed. Helps reduce anxiety about birth.
Watch out for: Make sure humor enhances the lesson, not distracts from it.
👉 You don’t have to pick just one. Most educators blend elements. Maybe you’re a Scientist with a touch of Nurturer, or a Storyteller who brings in Entertainer energy when the room feels heavy.
How to Discover Your Natural Teaching Style
Finding your style isn’t about choosing a box — it’s about recognizing how you naturally connect. Start here:
Reflect on your strengths. Do you get excited explaining the science of hormones, or do you light up guiding couples through a comfort measure exercise?
Ask for feedback. If you’ve taught before (even in training), notice what others comment on. Did they say you were funny, clear, or calming?
Notice your energy. What parts of class prep make you excited? What drains you? Your energy is a clue.
Think about outcomes. How do you want parents to feel when they leave your class — empowered, informed, reassured, excited?
👉 Your natural style is usually the one that feels easiest, not the one that makes you feel like you’re “performing.”
Read next: How to Create a Childbirth Class Curriculum That Parents Love
Tips for Developing Your Unique Style
Once you’ve identified your natural tendencies, you can refine your style to be both authentic and effective.
1. Play to Your Strengths
If you’re a natural storyteller, weave stories throughout your curriculum. If you’re research-driven, provide evidence-based handouts.
2. Balance With Variety
Even if you lean strongly one way, mix in other approaches to reach different learning styles.
A Scientist can add role-play exercises.
A Nurturer can include a structured, evidence-based handout.
An Entertainer can pause for quiet reflection moments.
3. Keep Parents Engaged
Regardless of style, parents learn better when they’re actively participating. Use open questions, group discussions, and practice exercises.
4. Keep Growing
Your first class won’t be your final style. Over time, you’ll refine your voice, add techniques, and find new ways to connect. Treat your teaching style as something alive, not fixed.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Here are mistakes new educators often make when figuring out their style:
Copying their trainer. Your trainer’s style worked for them. Yours will look different.
Overloading with info. Parents don’t need every statistic — they need clarity.
Ignoring feedback. If your students look confused or disengaged, that’s valuable data.
👉 The key is balance: bring your strengths, stay open to growth, and listen to your students.
Bringing Your Style Into Your Materials
Your teaching style shows up not only in how you speak, but also in the visuals and resources you use. For example:
A Scientist might design clean, data-driven slides with diagrams.
A Nurturer might choose softer imagery and calming colors.
An Entertainer might include playful visuals or creative handouts.
👉 Whatever your style, you’ll want images that feel authentic and professional. That’s why we created BirthPro Market — a stock photo membership made just for birth professionals. With 50% off, you can match your visuals to your unique voice without spending hours hunting for the right images.
Final Thoughts
Finding your teaching style isn’t about picking from a list. It’s about leaning into what makes you you. When you teach in a way that feels authentic, you’ll attract the right students, build trust faster, and create classes that parents rave about.
👉 Bookmark this blog for reference.
👉 Read the full guide:How to Start a Childbirth Education Business.
👉 Explore How to Create a Childbirth Class Curriculum That Parents Love.
👉 Join the course “Launch Your Childbirth Education Business”
👉 Don’t forget your 50% off BirthPro Market membership.
