BREASTFEEDING PROMOTION & SUPPORT WPPM # 630-14 Subject: Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program Item: Training Requirements

PURPOSE: Provides information on the training requirements for Breastfeeding Peer Counseling (BPC) Program staff. POLICY: I. All BPC Program staff must receive initial and ongoing training on breastfeeding, job related aspects of peer counseling, documentation, and referrals. The local agency (LA) is responsible for planning and overseeing staff breastfeeding training. All trainings must be documented as described in WPPM 190-00 (Staff Training). PROCEDURE(S): I. The LA is responsible for planning and overseeing BPC staff breastfeeding training. II. The LA must ensure that the PC Supervisor / International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) receives training regarding: A. How to manage BPC Programs using the California WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program Administrative Manual. B. How to use and obtain reports from the Peer Counselor Data Base (PCDB) and Extranet. III. The LA must provide the following trainings to Peer Counselors (PCs): A. These initial trainings are required before PCs are allowed to counsel participants: 1. Complete contents, including activities, of the California WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program Manual. This may be augmented by the instructor with additional pertinent information or activities. 2. Procedures for documenting participant contacts including use of the PCDB. 3. Local WIC orientation including breast pump policies. 4. At least eight opportunities (a minimum of 4 hours total) to shadow or observe a PC Supervisor / IBCLC, WIC nutritionist, or experienced PC, providing breastfeeding counseling. B. Monthly PCs must: 1. Attend regularly scheduled staff meetings for in-services on breastfeeding topics or case study reviews and discussion led by a PC Supervisor / IBCLC, BF Coordinator, or an IBCLC. Revised California WIC Policy and Procedure Manual Page 1 of 2 March 7, 2013

BREASTFEEDING PROMOTION & SUPPORT WPPM # 630-14 Subject: Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program Item: Training Requirements

Revised California WIC Policy and Procedure Manual Page 2 of 2 March 7, 2013

2. Have the opportunity to attend all regular WIC staff meetings. C. Annually PCs must: 1. Have opportunities to shadow or observe a PC Supervisor / IBCLC, WIC nutritionist or experienced PC providing breastfeeding counseling. 2. Review WPPM 630s for program policies. IV. All LA BPC Program staff must: A. Have opportunities for continuing education through attendance at breastfeeding conferences, seminars, and/or independent study. B. Use adult learning strategies and provide participant-centered services. C. Attend Biannual BPC Program staff trainings. AUTHORITY: Loving Support C Through Peer Counseling: A journey Together – For WIC Managers, November, 2011

Loving Support Frequently Asked Questions 2011 Loving Support Model for a Successful Peer Counseling Program Allowable Costs for Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Funds, USDA November 2011. CROSS REFERENCE: WPPM 190-00 Staff Training