I've been reading with much interest the recent postings on this
subject.  I think it points out the fact that we need to use
multiple approaches.  I remember the example of what impacts
learning retention (although I don't remember the exact numbers).
We learn so much by hearing the info, more if we hear and read, and
still more if we hear, read, and do.  In my prenatal classes I
wlways mention that I don't expect the participants to remember
everything that's covered in the class.  However, after they have
their baby they will be hearing it for the second time and it will
be easier to remember than if it's the first time (along with all
the other info they get bombarded with in that 24-48 hours).  Moms
who will be delivering at our hospital all get their binders (with
all the printed material regarding not only prenatal matters, but
all the mom and baby care handouts) at an early office visit.  This
way they will hopefully have further implanted some information
before delivery.
In doing postpartum bedside teaching I have found some moms that are
"sponges, soaking in everything I say while with others I can't
cover more that one or two small points at a time.  As one previous
Lactnetter pointed out, humor helps a mom retain the info.  I also
like to relate it whenever possible to her own experience.  It makes
the information much more understandable.  For example, if I mention
that baby will pause from time to time during a feeding, I tell her
that's like when she lays her fork down between bites.  I point out
that she doesn't always eat the same amount every time she puts
something in her mouth, so we don't expect baby to either.  Adults
don't always eat at the same time except when some external factor
dictates it (lunch hour at work, meal tray in the hospital, etc.) so
why should we expect babies to do the same.  In discussing
engorgement and how the swelling in the breasts may slow the flow, I
relate it to pinching a straw and trying to drink through it.  My
final parting line, in encouraging them to call with questions or
concerns is often "Think of us like AA-before you reach for the
first bottle, call!"

             ***********************************************
The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned
LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(TM)
mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to:
http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html