Stage Fright

Bree · 04-27-2006, 02:16 AM

OK - it has taken me a while to realize I need help, so here I go.

I've been studying to be a childbirth educator for over a year now. I also have sat in on classes taught by my mentor, a very good friend, for over a year. I teach parts of the class each week (our series lasts 4 weeks, 1 two hour class a week) but I have stage fright. I forget things I know I know, I can't keep my mind on track. I don't know what happens. It never happens when I'm doula-ing or when my mentor isn't around (!).

Any suggestions on what to do? Thanks!

MyDoulaStacia · 04-27-2006, 08:09 AM

Don't you have an outline for the class Bree? I know that always helped me. After awhile you will have the flow down and you won't need the notes as much to help you know which topic is next.
It's so natural to be nervous...everytime even! It sure is a good feeling though knowing you are helping to educate women in such an empowering topic.

DL · 04-27-2006, 01:21 PM

Sorry....I have no words of wisdom, but I am watching this thread with interest. I am in the studying phase of pursuing CBE certification through Lamaze International via the educational program, Passion for Birth. I have yet to teach (other than Doula Prenatals). I don't know if this will happen to me (stage fright), but I would like to be prepared in case it does, or better yet....prevent it from happening in the first place!

So...I hope that more of the CBEs on here will post. I do agree with Stacia's recommendation of using an outline; I'd be surprised if you didn't use one already, but if you haven't had one.....make one!!

everydaymiracles · 04-27-2006, 05:39 PM

Hi there Bree - it doesn't just take stage fright to make you forget facts or what you planned to say! Occaisionaly when I get off topic (answering a question for a class attendee) I forget to go back and cover the topics we missed. When I was teaching classes for a fellow doula, she used laminated cards she had made up (1/2 page size) On the one side were bullet points describing order of a activity, discussion, movie, etc. On the back were points that she wanted to be sure were covered. Sometimes I would really use the cards, other times not so much. Sometimes it is a case of having the safety net and not needing it. I was a doula first before I was an educator so I am much more comfortable teaching a private class one on one than standing up infront of 4 or more couples. Best of luck! It does get easier! Robyn

Bree · 04-28-2006, 02:15 AM

I do have an outline, but I seem to still get stuck on things & I second guess myself, especially when I am teaching medical professionals! I am way more confident when I'm 1-on-1 OR when my mentor happens to not be in the room! I want to re-do my outine b/c if I taught strictly from that, I could cover everything in one night! I know it'll take a while to get my routine down, but it is kind of frustrating getting there!

capandcradle · 04-29-2006, 09:10 AM

Dear Bree -- Bless your heart! It happens even to those of us who have been teaching for years and years, particularly if I'm observed by someone who might be hostile to evidence-based maternity care.

I don't have any words of advice, though. How's this if it's any consolation -- In my Lamaze training I chose breastfeeding as my peer teaching. I've been a breastfeeding counselor in a mother to mother helping group for 13 years and you'd figure I have it all down pat. But I completely s*p*a*c*e*d what I wanted to say.

If you hear good, advice please pass it along :-)

Anne

tlcdoula · 04-29-2006, 01:47 PM

I am not sure what is available to you, but I do all my teaching off of powerpoints. This way I don't need to rely on my notes and clients seem to really like it as it is very professional. Not only that but I went to something on adult learning and they said that the adults coming up now are technology ridden and seem lost without technology in their lives and they seem to learn better when they can see it, hear it and do it.

On the flip side - we all forget stuff and that isn't a big deal. My background is in teaching and if I get a doctor in my childbirth class I used to get so darn nervous. It is funny though because once I had an anesthesiologist and a family practice doctor (not the same class though) and both commented on how fantastic my class was. I think when dealing with professionals it is important to remember that they are the "expert" in their field and you are the expert in yours! If you forget something and it is important just come back to it and address it later on.