Phyllis writes in part:
(snip)... are rewriting Patient Ed handouts on a 4th grade level (meaning we can't use anything already written by anyone)...(snip)

Sounds like the LCs at your hospital are doing a phenomenal job and being allowed to make many positive changes!  Congratulations.  As far as "easy to read" materials go...the WIC materials in our area (TX) usually fall into this category.  They have an excellent handout for moms on proper latch that my 3rd grader understands perfectly.  Also, the La Leche League Catalogue has a section containing "easy to read" materials.  

I think this is an area overlooked very often.  No mom is going to say "I don't read well enough to understand these handouts."  She'll most likely throw them out and do whatever it is that she perceives to be easiest.  Besides that, I've found most women immediately postpartum seem to respond best to very simple and concrete instructions.  I always go over things several times with them and have them repeat back key points.  Even just a few "simple to understand" handouts for critical factors are a great idea.

Glad to hear about all the good work you're doing!

Dawn Martin
Austin, TX

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