Q about PP doula and your training.

Luv2bemommy · 03-22-2006, 08:17 PM

I am just curious when you go to your PP doula training if they teach you about attachment parenting??? I'm asking because a peditrician asked me if they did and I honestly dont know.. I told him I would go by what the AAP went by but I don't live like that myself so just curious what you PP doula's have done yourself and what you teach!!

PostDoula · 03-25-2006, 03:09 PM

Some Attachment Parenting techniques seem to be some of the best baby-soothing techniques. While CAPPA's Postpartum Doula training didn't necessarily label it "Attachment Parenting," there were elements there...Including how to help facilitate bonding between parents and baby, massage, etc...
I'm personally a fan of Dr. Sears' philosophy/approach and I definitely encourage babywearing, massage, and a baby-centered approach to care. Although, when I present this information, I do so with the empirical evidence (i.e. baby's who are worn for 3 hrs. or more fuss up to 80% less. Premies who were massaged gained 40% more weight than ones who weren't, etc.) Sometimes people are more receptive to it when they don't feel there's an agenda attached. Just seems easier for them to pick and choose what works for them.
Take care!
Beth
www.doula-care.com

Luv2bemommy · 03-25-2006, 04:32 PM

Thanks!!

I am also a fan of Dr sears and we baby wear, cloth diaper, co-sleep, etc.. I just wasn't sure what you should tell clients if this was to come up..

tlcdoula · 05-13-2006, 09:50 PM

I am certified through CAPPA and like already stated they do not teach tons on attachment parenting. I don't know exactly why they do it the way they do, but honestly I think as doulas we need to be open to differing parenting styles. I have gone into homes where I don't necessarily agree with the parenting - it isn't bad or abusive or anything like that just not how I would raise my children and I remind myself that this is not my child, not my family, and therefore the parents need to live with the consequences of how they are raising their child. If someone asks my opinion on something I am very, very clear that I am giving my opinion and then I follow it up with whatever the AAP recommends (if I know it

) I also suggest that parents really explore their options. I will suggest books that are more AP in nature if they are wondering and want to explore their options. I might also send them to websites, but don't ever tell them that they should do xyz.

Matrescence · 05-23-2006, 08:33 PM

Same here, I just took the DONA training, it was less focused on a particular style and more general comfort techniques for mother/baby. A lot of it would easily fall under AP but it was never called that.

I haven't taken a pp client yet but I think here in our town I would run into more parents who aren't aware of AP, where as more toward Asheville they are so I'm wondering the same things. I've thought about what I might do or say, maybe some role modeling, wearing baby in the sling to kind of let them 'see' how soothing it is for example. Not sure if it'll work... just a thought

PostDoula · 05-23-2006, 11:05 PM

Just to clarify, I strive for nonjudgmental support. As a Doula I am often in a position to support parenting that differs from what I feel is best--be it formula feeding, or very detached parenting, etc. When I "present information" it is always in response to a question or specific request for information. Particularly first-time parents are very interested in information and techniques.
And, Lanny, I do find that modeling of attachment or baby-friendly techniques is often best. If the client doesn't have a sling, I usually bring one. Often they are amazed to see me folding laundry with the baby in the sling, etc. I find babywearing to be as beneficial for the parents as it is for the baby--it's often empowering.
However, I've seen many varied approaches to parenting and feel that each family has to find what works for them.
Beth