Complete Reading Lists Ahead of Time and other stuff.~

patricelondon · 05-26-2008, 02:03 PM

Has anyone done this? I'm wanting to go on start some of the required reading I'll have to do. Also, what if I've already read a book on the list within the last year? I want to go with ALACE (cbe and doula programs) because I love the philosphy and really want to do their workshop. But, there's no training in my area and while I'm totally open to sponsoring a workshop in my area thus going for free, I've not heard anything from them and I've called and emailed. Does anyone know what's up with ALACE?
My second choice would be to do distance learning with birtharts (they don't have a workshop in my area either). I really want to go to a workshop though.

Supermomma · 05-26-2008, 02:12 PM

I would go ahead and start the reading lists. You can get the books new, or even look for them at second hand book stores. That's where I found most of mine. At least then you'll have a head start on the info if you ever do get a workshop.
As far as hosting a workshop I really don't know anything aout that. Sorry

MothertheMother · 05-26-2008, 03:45 PM

I think reading first is a great way to start. I had actually intended to do just that but then I found a workshop that I just couldn't pass up. Once you get your certification packet and start working on the requirements you'll know if you need to read a book a second time or just refresh your memory by skimming etc.

earthangel · 05-26-2008, 03:51 PM

The organizations that I am with ask that you read the books after starting the program. Complete the assignments in the order that is convenient for you. I might go to a DONA workshop though I am certifying with a different org. DONA workshops are all around where I live. Have you considered their workshops?

patricelondon · 05-26-2008, 04:41 PM

Yeah, Dona is everywhere. I know there are a few coming up here in July. I'm thinking about it...

I've looked up all the books I'd need to read for ALACE and there's 3 that aren't available on amazon or my libraries. What happens in those cases, do they give you other options?

Dese · 05-27-2008, 02:24 PM

If you do a workshop with an organisation (such as a Doula group) that is in your city, a lot of places have lending libraries so that's another option.
I'm really sorry you haven't heard back from anyone! I emailed the 18 or so trainers listed on DONA for Canada and heard back from a lot of them, almost all were willing to work with me to bring a workshop to my city. I hope you get a response soon.

patricelondon · 05-27-2008, 06:43 PM

Thanks! I spoke with someone from ALACE today! They are revising their doula program and it will be up and running again in a few months so in the meantime I can read the books so I can have a better idea of what I'm getting into and whether I really want to do it. Plus they're sending me some information. I'm excited!

Dese · 05-27-2008, 07:42 PM

That's great! I'm glad someone finally got back to you.

americanmum · 06-04-2008, 07:51 PM

I'm DONA certified, but I feel it really helped that I had read the required books ahead of time. When I went to my training, much of it was just review, and I was able to relax into the workshop and connect emotionally to the information presented (does that make sense?), instead of having to focus entirely on soaking up each piece of information and taking extensive notes. But I still had a lot of "aha" moments, and feel like I got more memory retention out of the workshop than if I hadn't have read the books.