Fresh Start Program

The Fresh Start program provided by Pediatric Associates of the Northwest supports young families with the tools needed to achieve optimal nutrition, growth and development during pregnancy and early childhood.
Dr. Casares and Connie Evers, our dietitian, have put together a wonderful set of classes that we are offering to our patients and the community. This six session program covers the basics of eating well during pregnancy and lactation for both mother and child; infant and toddler nutrition; the importance of establishing a healthy feeding relationship; and the importance of creating a healthy family food environment as children grow and develop.
Prenatal classes are complimentary and open to the community while our family nutrition classes are available only to patients who have established care at Pediatric Associates of the Northwest. Registration is required. Please call 503-675-3476 for details and registration.
Prenatal Nutrition
Pregnancy Nutrition: The Basics of Eating Well
Session 1: May 7th, June 4th, or July 2nd
Learn how to choose the best diet to support your growing baby, manage morning sickness, and avoid potentially harmful foods.
Pregnancy Nutrition: Concerns & Challenges
Session 2: May 21st, June 11th, or July 9th
Keep your weight on track and incorporate safe physical activity throughout your pregnancy. Learn how to conquer cravings and deal with common digestive discomforts.
Breastfeeding Basics
Session 3: June 18th or July 16th
Discover why breastfeeding is the optimal infant feeding choice, and how it benefits both mom and baby. Safe weight loss while breastfeeding is also covered in this session.
Family Nutrition
Our family nutrition series is open to families who have established care with a primary care provider from Pediatric Associates of the Northwest.
Starting out Right with Baby
May 28th, June 25th, or July 23rd
This session covers the basics of infant growth and development and offers guidelines for feeding baby during the first year of life. Self-care for busy moms is also a focus of this class.
Growing Up: Feeding Development and Behavior
May 20th, June 17th, or July 22nd
As your baby turns into a toddler, eating habits may become unpredictable. Learn how to best nourish your toddler and develop a healthy feeding relationship.
Creating a Healthy Family Food Environment
July 30th
It’s not always easy to eat well given the availability of unhealthy food and beverage choices. The focus of this session is on how young families can create a healthy and balanced approach to eating and nutrition.
Registered dietitian, Connie Evers, completed her dietetic internship in 1982 from the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. She earned her master’s degree in nutrition in 1984 from the University of Iowa and bachelor’s degree in dietetics in 1981 from the University of Nebraska. She has worked with children, teens and families for 30 years in school, community and healthcare settings. Connie joined Pediatric Associates of the Northwest P.C., in 2012 and currently practices in both our Portland and Lake Oswego offices. Send Connie Evers an