Anne asked what the mothers in her new moms' support group need to
know about breastfeeding, since they are almost all still nursing,
and would like to know what LLL Leaders do.
Anne, may I suggest that the best way to get some ideas is for you
to attend a local LLL meeting and see for yourself. You will find
that the meetings follow a pattern. In a repeating series, they cover
the benefits of BF, fitting a new baby into the family, breastfeeding manangement, nutrition and weaning. Because each subject is tailored
to the needs of an ever-changing population, no two meetings are ever
the same. The formats vary, too. They can be in the form of a general discussion, a game, a "round robin", etc. Posters and other visual
aids - especially nursing babies and toddlers - are also employed as
needed.
The most important aspect of LLL meetings - IMO! - is the genuine
respect accorded each participant. Meetings are often opened with the phrase, "You will hear a variety of ideas expressed here. Please feel
free to use those which fit into your lifestyle and discard the rest."
This philosophy would certainly fit your particular group where some
mothers have already weaned.
Perhaps the best place to start would be to ask the mothers what *they*
would like to know about breastfeeding. I bet you'll end up with enough subjects for a year of meetings! Here are some possibilities to get you going in case they are slow off the mark:
Birth options which help to get bf off to a good start.
Getting started - what every new mother needs to know.
What do babies *really* need?
Nursing in public.
Coping with criticism.
The father's role in a breastfeeding family.
Nighttime parenting.
When baby makes three (or more).
The benefits of long term nursing.
Nursing during pregnancy.
Tandem nursing.
When mother and baby are separated.
Nursing gadgets - when, why and how.
I hope that this helps. Please feel free to e-mail with further questions.
Norma Ritter,IBCLC, LLLL, Area Professional Liaison LLL NY-W
"If not now, when?" If not us, who?"
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