Is the in-person workshop worth this?

[3ofhearts]

Ok. I guess I was planning on either taking out some money on our credit line to do distance ed or applying for a scholarship through CAPPA. I really like the position & scope of practice for CAPPA and I think I agree with them most of all. I also like that they certify cbe's and lactation educators. I have read all the required reading on their list too.

Well I started thinking that maybe there would be value in going to an in-person workshop, but for financial reasons, I was afraid it wouldn't be possible. So I contacted some people having workshops within an hour or two from me and one lady has agreed to give me a deep discount if I supply some refreshments. She is also ok with nurslings.

When I contacted her, I was thinking I wouldn't have a problem leaving my son with my husband and then he could bring Sullivan to me to nurse as needed -- or pumping, whatever. But the more I think about it, the more it stresses me out. I haven't ever left him since his birth for more than half an hour. Everyone tells me that I need to bite the bullet and cut the chord, but I'm just really nervous about leaving him with anyone, even my husband. And I don't plan on taking clients until he's at least a year old anyway.

The other thing is, this is a DONA workshop. And I have nothing against DONA, my doula-inspiration was a DONA doula, it would just be my second choice, I guess. I'd have to buy some more books to meet their requirements too.

And even with the discount I've been offered, it'd still be really tough on us.

I guess, what it all boils down to, is whether or not the in-person workshop is worth it?

Opinions?

[Intuitivedoula]

My opinion is that it depends on what you are looking for.
The in-person workshop will connect you with other women who are seeking the same training that you are...there is a connection that develops that is very worthwhile and that can provide friendship and support.
It sounds like the person offering you a discount, plus allowing you to bring your infant has good intentions and might be someone you could continue learn through.
If you are going to do a workshop where you have to leave your infant - and then spend time worrying if you did the right thing....well, that might take the fun out of learning.
If you do one....it doesn't mean you can't do another later. I know that finances are an issue too...but learning is lifelong.
Do what suits your need now.....later your priorities will be different.

Carla

[mamamicky]

Honestly, one of the toughest things about what we do is staying TRUE to the ideals and beliefs that got us here. I do NOT leave my babies for any stretch of time until they are ready, be that 9 months or 18 months. Not to say, I can't do a 2 hour stretch here or there, but usually not until they are eating some solids and can/will stay with daddy or someone else a bit. I take my baby places others might not (not to births - which some people do) but I am the one who has to live with myself for the rest of my life. If your nursling is still small, nurses alot and is sling-able, I would just wear him all day and take him with you. Invest in a good sling like a Maya wrap, Moby wrap or a Mei Tie of some variety and take him with you.

If you can't do that, it's not that it's not worth it, the timing may just not be right. And people who tell you, you need to cut the cord need to back off. Attachment to a primary caregiver is one of the single most important things a baby has. Our society treats it like nothing and a nuisance but it is the cornerstone to human development and love and should be respected.

Blessings,
Micky

[AmandaB]

I think you need to do what is right for you. Most programs allow for babes in arms if they are still nursing, you just have to be prepared to get up, be a little more preoccupied and might miss some important points. What I can suggest is to make an allie, find someone that you can share notes with and you know we are in the business of babies so most women are ok with babies around, even fussy ones.

If the instructor is allowing you to bring your son then I would do it and as micky said invest in a good carrier. Remember Doula work will always be here, there will be other trainings and if you are on the fence about it, you might need some more time to think about it. I can tell you that my daughter was 6 months old when I started looking into Doulas for the first time, the response I got from the first person I spoke with made it clear that maybe she (my dd) and I were not ready to make the leap. I waited another 2 years and I think that was the right time, because she was older and I was that much more relaxed as a mother. Take your time and make the decision that is right for you.

[Mile High Doula]

Did you pick? I have been to a DONA training and a CAPPA training and there is definately a difference. At both trainings though, there were nursing moms there. They would either bring the baby in and nurse, or step out and nurse. Either way, they were fine and no one said a thing. Most of the time, the baby was welcome and just stayed in the room with mom. Distraction for a few minutes because all of us were cooing over the kiddo, but then they just played quietly in the corner (mom and baby).

[3ofhearts]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mile High Doula Did you pick? I have been to a DONA training and a CAPPA training and there is definately a difference.

Can you elaborate on this a bit?