The first few weeks after birth are some of the most exciting and harrowing times for new, often sleep-deprived parents. A knowledgeable support person completely change families' experience during this time and help them fully reap the joy of having a new baby.

We are confident our postpartum doula training is the very best in the Bay Area. Our 15-hour program is a thorough preparation in attending newly expanded families. Enrollment in the 5-week program includes an informative training binder, local resources, continued support from the instructor and the option of certification after completing additional training. The program includes:

• Breastfeeding support
• Newborn care
• Facilitating bonding
• Mothercare after the birth
• Emotions in the postpartum period
• Dealing with changing relationships
• Early parenting

There is an additional class on postpartum nutrition that is required for certification. The training is offered three times a year. Infant/Child CPR certification is required to be a Postpartum Doula through Natural Resources.

1. Attendance of the following training classes:

Postpartum Doula Core Training - 15 hours
Postpartum Nutrition Class with Julie Matthews - 3 hours

2. Reading
Read one selection from each of three categories and submit a one page written response to each book:

Becoming a Mother

a. After the Baby's Birth by Robin Lim
b. The Mind of Your Newborn Baby by Sally Placksin
c. Natural Health after Birth by Aviva Jill Romm
d. Ourselves as Mothers by Sheila Kitzinger
e. The Year after Childbirth by Sheila Kitzinger

The Newborn

a. The Baby Book by Sears & Sears
b. The Mind of Your Newborn Baby by David Chamberlain
c. Your Amazing Newborn by Klaus and Klaus

Breastfeeding

a. Nursing Mother's Companion by Kathleen Huggins
b. Ultimate Breastfeeding Book of Answers by Dr. Jack Newman
c. The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche League

3. Proof of Infant/Child CPR Certification

4. Observe a Breastfeeding class or Breastfeeding support group. Submit a written synopsis of what you learned.

5. Support 4 families in the early postpartum period (first 6 weeks) for at least 2 shifts of 2 hours each. Submit a 1-2 page written summary of your experience with each family, including specific ways you provided guidance.

6. Natural Resources Evaluation of Postpartum Support Questionnaire completed by mother of each family supported.

7. Students will have 2 years upon completion of the basic doula training in which to complete the remaining requirements for certification.

8. Please submit your paperwork to Natural Resources, att: Tracy Massillon.