Presentation Information

Are You Part of the Village? Supporting Single-Parent Households and Other Unique Family Structures

• Speaker: Tiara Caldwell , LPN, IBCLC
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits: 1 CERP, 1 Nursing CEU, 1 CME, 0.1 Midwifery CEU, 1 Dietetic CEU

Abstract:

As the number of families headed by one-parent and more diverse family structures drastically increases, it is critical for lactation professionals to consider the clinical implications of providing care to these families. This population is increasing globally. More individuals choose to have unique family structures, whether choosing to wait until an older age to become a parent independent of a partner, multi-generational families with grandparents or other elders cohabiting with the family, or same-sex couples who start a family. These unique family structures can also be, but are not always, established due to loss, trauma, or financial strain. These families need special care and consideration when approaching their lactation and infant feeding care. As a result, they may receive care plans and information which does not fit their real life situation and leaves them with misguided advice, a lack of confidence, and isolation. Learners will take away the skills to identify these populations' unique needs and consider factors contributing to their feeding success or failure. We will review active listening, motivational interviewing, and critical thinking skills. We will also discuss ways to deal with existing biases and work as a team to achieve feeding success. Lastly, learners will take away skills to assist these families in managing expectations, establishing and maintaining boundaries, and achievable goal setting.