Why Support Groups?

Support groups bring together parents and babies of all ages and varied experiences. Parents who have support during birth and breastfeeding are more likely to achieve their parenting goals. Of course, support groups bring together families and is a useful tool for parents to encourage, educate, and support one another toward this common infant feeding goal.

This group has been running in the Spokane/CDA area for over 15 years.  While the primary focus is on infant feeding, it is more of a “Mothering Support Group” than a “Breastfeeding Support Group”.  Families of all feeding methods are welcome, including those who are breastfeeding, pumping (this is still breastfeeding!), formula feeding, and any combination of the above.  Topics frequently focus on not just feeding, but also infant sleep, behavior, weaning, pumping, and all stages of infant and parenting development.  The group is inclusive of all of our area’s diverse families.

Prenatal participation in breastfeeding support groups gives parents a realistic peek at what breastfeeding might have in store for them. They can learn from other parents’ birth experiences and the role it played in breastfeeding. It is also an opportunity for them to connect with other like-minded families and introduce them to resources to help them with any potential breastfeeding issues that may arise so they know where to reach out for support.

In addition to breastfeeding support and education, support groups offer an opportunity for moms to form relationships and communities with other families.

Why IBCLC Facilitated Support Groups?

During support groups that are facilitated by IBCLCs and CLCs, the lactation provider will monitor conversation to make sure that information that is shared reflects current best practices in evidence-based infant feeding and development.  The IBCLC/CLC at the support group may also help you identify when breastfeeding challenges may require more in-depth consultation with an healthcare practitioner.

Please not that support groups are NOT healthcare consultations
and are for general breastfeeding support only.

Currently Available Breastfeeding Support Groups

Our lactation providers moderate support groups for breastfeeding help for breastfeeding families throughout Spokane, Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene (CDA), and the surrounding areas, as well as online.  Current support groups are:

Mothering Support Group – Tuesdays from 12-2pm
615 East 6th Avenue, Post Falls, ID
FREE to attend, no pre-registration required
Facilitated by McKenzie Keyes, CLC