La Leche League of South Bend

South Bend schools are closed this morning, so we are going to cancel our meeting as well. Snuggle in with those babies this morning and stay safe and warm!

This week we are going to talk about Birth and early days with baby. How did your birth experience(s) affect breastfeeding? What would you change if you could? What would you recommend to other mothers? And what about the early days after your baby was born--what surprised you? What do wish you would have known? How can we advocate for the best kind of support for our new families? Bring ideas of local resources, supportive ears, and open minds as we come together to share our perspectives on these powerful topics. As always, we will have room for  your breastfeeding questions, concerns, and successes! 10am Tuesday, January 22 Women's Care Center 360 N. Notre Dame Ave. (where it intersects with La Salle Ave.) South Bend, Indiana 46617

Although each nursing couple is unique, one thing we know for certain is that all breastfeeding relationships change and progress as time goes on. At this week's morning meeting we'll chat about nursing our babies into toddlerhood, and all the amusing and at times frustrating things that go with it! These can be great opportunities to work on gentle discipline--as the most recent edition of  The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding  says, "Knowing what your child needs and what's underneath his behavior means that you can provide loving guidance that teaches appropriate behavior within the limits and capabilities of your unique child." Respectful and gradual weaning is something we often think about at this stage, as well as dealing with questions of whether to continue nursing in public, and fielding questions and criticism from others.  And we always make space for any other concerns or questions you may have! See you  Tuesday, January 15 @10am ...

Come join the discussion on Tuesday January 8 at 7 pm.  Do you have any favorite things about breastfeeding that you would like to add to the list?  While we chat, supplies will be available for you  to make a "nursing necklace" to take home.  They can be fun to wear to keep little hands busy while nursing. http://www.mothering.com/ community/a/100-awesome- things-about-breastfeeding- that-you-dont-find-in-studies * In January and February we will be meeting at The Well at River Park Grace, 2410 Mishawaka Avenue, South Bend, IN 46615 View Larger Map

Just because the next two Tuesdays fall on holidays doesn't mean we need to go cold turkey from LLL camaraderie! Tama's kids are continuing their adorable holiday tradition of throwing a party for LLL mamas, babies, and children next Friday. They will have toddler-friendly games, snacks and an art project. Partners, siblings, friends and relatives are also welcome! If you find yourself needing breastfeeding support, Leaders and other mothers will be on hand to lend an ear. Friday, December 28 at 11am River Park Branch Library 2022 Mishawaka Avenue South Bend, Indiana 46615

We've all seen breastfeeding used as the scapegoat for many issues with our babies and children--how do we stay strong in the face of doubts, particularly when we're sleep-deprived? There are as many sleep philosophies and set-ups as there are babies. Come share ideas of what has worked for your family, struggles you face, and an open heart for commiseration. This week we will also talk about how to dispel common breastfeeding myths and misconceptions, particularly as they relate to sleep, while staying confident in our parenting choices. We have several books in the LLL library you may want to check out, Dr. McKenna's "Sleeping with Your Baby: A Parent's Guide to Cosleeping, Whether You Do It Occasionally or Every Night, Do It Safely" and Dr. Sears's "Nighttime Parenting: How to Get Your Baby and Child to Sleep." We're looking forward to hearing about your sleep triumphs and challenges, as well as  your breastfeeding questions, co...

Yes, there is a meeting tonight, Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 7 pm at River Park Branch library.  Come share your stories - how do you feel about becoming a mother and the choices you have made?  Perhaps you have mixed feelings of loving every day while hating some of the moments of motherhood. Wondering if you have made the right choice to stay home or go back to work?  Bring baby along and any questions you have as well. painting by Salvador Dali