P8: Breastfeeding Basics: Smooth Sailing to the Island of Breastfeeding Paradise

Abstract

Smooth Sailing to the Island of Breastfeeding Paradise is a 2-hour interactive prenatal breastfeeding class presented quarterly. It is facilitated by an Arkansas Department of Health and Human Services Nutritionist and Breastfeeding Peer Counselor through the Family Advocacy Center at Little Rock Air Force Base in Jacksonville, Arkansas. The class features a tropical theme and decorations. Topics presented include “All Aboard” (benefits of breastfeeding), “Avoiding Sharks and Pirates” (common breastfeeding myths), “Dinner Etiquette” (nutrition for breastfeeding mothers), “Island Excursion Training” (positioning, latch, pumps and other aids) and “Ask the Tour Guides” (questions/answers). Topics are addressed through a series of games that involve all participants. The class is offered one to two weeks prior to a breastfeeding support meeting and parents receive a follow-up letter inviting them to attend and thanking them for their participation in the prenatal class. A local health department peer counselor contacts attendees monthly through delivery and beyond. Each parent is provided a tote bag containing breastfeeding promotional items and written material. Upon completion of the class, participants should be able to list five benefits of breastfeeding, dispute common myths related to breastfeeding, demonstrate two or more breastfeeding positions, describe signs of appropriate latch and list three ways to know infant is getting enough breast milk. Evaluation of the class has consistently shown the goals of the class are being met and attendees enjoy the format. The class is provided free of charge.