I need some council from some experienced prenatal educators!

I'm starting the process of planning breastfeeding classes, and, as is always 
the case in starting a new endeavor, I'm not sure where to begin!  I found 
Linda Smith's suggestions on "How to teach a great breastfeeding class" and I 
know they will be helpful.  I will especially remember the 'less is more' tip; 
since I find the subject of breastfeeding so fascinating, I tend to be rather 
long-winded and technical and sometimes 'lose' my clients!

In Linda's list, she suggests starting with the most important information and 
ending with the 2nd most important; put the least important in the middle.  
This will be a 2 1/2 hour, general prenatal breastfeeding class.  I would like to 
hear opinions on what are the 1st and 2nd most important topics for 
expectant moms.  My thoughts are as follows:

#1 Why breastfeeding is important:  Sure, these moms have already decided 
to breastfeed or else they wouldn't be taking the class.  But, drawing from my 
own mindset when I was at their point in life, I'm not sure they understand 
HOW important it is to breastfeed and continue to breastfeed for at least 1 
year.  Right now they know that "breast is best" (but formula is normal, and 
therefore, perfectly fine!).  I want them to be awed and amazed by HOW 
important this feeding/nurturing choice is, and have the conviction to stick 
through the first few weeks and continue after returning to work.

Middle content: the "hows".  Of course this is very important, but they'll never 
really understand 'how' until the baby is in their arms and they have to juggle 
little wandering hands and a bobbling head!  I think this is the stuff they can 
read about in books and will hear over and over again in the hospital.

Last (2nd most important): Maintaining a milk supply.  Isn't this the biggest 
reason that moms quit breastfeeding...the 'lose' their supply?

I appreciate all of you so much, what a wonderful group!
Julie Conaway, RN, IBCLC

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