At the International Breastfeeding Institute, it is not uncommon for us to see new moms registering to become a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor (CBC). It is often our own breastfeeding experiences which lead us to pursue becoming a lactation professional.
Can you become a breastfeeding counselor as a new mom? Absolutely. While there are some challenges, we were founded by parents. We know what it is like to pursue and work in a new career while raising a family.
In short, yes, it is very possible. The long answer, here are some tips on how to become a breastfeeding counselor as a new mom.
Choose A Flexible Breastfeeding Counselor Training
There are many lactation professional training courses available, especially online. However, not all training courses are designed to be self-paced and with access to an Internationally Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).
Our courses are designed to be fully self-paced while ensuring you have access to a real IBCLC. Being able to train in a flexible way while still being able to reach an instructor is so important for everyone, but especially busy new moms.
Be Intentional In Scheduling Time to Study
It is easy to put yourself and your aspirations on hold while caring for your family. Certainly, family is important and comes first. However, it is also possible to lose yourself in constantly putting everyone before your own aspirations.
Take time to be intentional about scheduling time to study. For some, it is setting aside time once a week. For others, it is setting aside time during naps or in the evenings. As a self-paced program, you can choose what works best for you. However, it is important to schedule time to tackle the course, so you do not fall behind your personal goals.
It is important you remember that your goals and aspirations are important and valuable. Some parents plan to work when their partner is home, others can throw a baby in wrap and get work done while baby contact naps.
Use Your Early Parenting Experiences to Network
As a new parent, perhaps you attend infant feeding support groups. Maybe you go to a mom’s group, hit the playground often, or chat at preschool pickup. Often, when you have young children, you are naturally around others in the same stage of life.
When this happens, you can organically network and share what you are doing. You can slowly establish yourself as a lactation support. Your social media can include information about what you’re working on, what services you will offer, and how you can help people.
This does not mean going around spamming every friend as if you were in direct sales. However, when we are passionate about something which is likely to naturally come up in conversation, we can organically network with potential future clients or colleagues.
Many birth workers jump into their work during early parenthood. It is a natural progression for many who are interested in turning their passion into a career.
Have Realistic Expectations as a New Mom and Breastfeeding Counselor
As with any career change, it can take time to get through training. It also takes time to establish a career. Just as becoming a new mom is a transition, so is becoming a breastfeeding counselor.
There will be days you may not be able to login and study despite it being on your calendar. That’s okay, remember, family comes first. However, do not let that discourage you. Take it day by day and know that tomorrow is a new day and a chance to catch up again.
When you are ready to take clients, be prepared for normal new career challenges. Perhaps your little one is sick, or maybe you missed a call from a potential client. Plan for these things. Will you offer virtual support? Do you have childcare options for when your little one is under the weather? Is your voicemail clear and states what services you provide?
In time, you can absolutely tackle being a new mom and a breastfeeding counselor.