NCT refresher courses - are they worth it?

[EmmalinaC]

Just wondered if any of you had experience of the NCT's refresher courses?

We have moved to a new area since the birth of DD in 2006 and I don't really know many local mums - as I'm working part-time there don't seem to be too many opportunities to go to toddlers groups etc.

I'm not sure if I can stomach another course of the NCT's epidurals-are-the-devils-work lecturing so am in two minds about spending lots of money just to make some new friends but DD2 is due in May and I think it could be a lonely maternity leave if I don't do something!

Any thoughts on this? We're in Carshalton/Wallington area.

Don't know about NCT courses as I didn't do them, but I made new friends by going to toddler groups. There are often new mums there especially if they already have DC.

EmmalinaC - any chance you can join the local NCT without doing a refresher course? My own NCT course was a bit mixed and I didn't really bond with the other participants, but the branch has helpfully set up a group for those due in the same month and I have found that much more useful. Praps you can get get hooked up to coffee mornings and local groups set up through one of these NCT subgroups, not all of which will be in working hours?

I am considering doing one for the exact same reason. I know someone who did one after they moved and is now firm friends with the group she met. As with the first time around, I guess it comes down to luck of the draw in terms of whether you click with the other people in the group.