Module 1 Becoming a Peer Counselor

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Learning Objectives
Identify primary roles for peer counselors in
the WIC Program, including

• Supporting WIC breastfeeding mothers and babies
• Supplementing the WIC breastfeeding team

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What is a Peer Counselor?

• Women in the community with personal
• breastfeeding experience who provide
• information and support to other mothers.
• Thats what its all aboutmoms helping moms.
  
• 
  WIC Peer
  Counselor

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The Power ofMother-to-Mother Connection
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My Stars

• Peer counselors
• help mothers
• Make educated choices about infant feeding
• Prevent common breastfeeding concerns
• Work breastfeeding into their lives
• Talk about their concerns

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Basic Peer Counselor Duties

• Contact WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers
• Give basic breastfeeding information and support
• Be available outside usual working hours
• Keep accurate records
• Learn all you can

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A Typical Day for a Peer Counselor
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Sharing Breastfeeding Information
Peer Counselors Role Support Breastfeeding

• How breastfeeding helps mothers and babies
• How breastfeeding can work
• How to get a good start
• Easy tips to make breastfeeding go smoothly
• Preventing and handling common concerns
• When to ask for help

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Who is Here to Help You?
PEER COUNSELOR SUPERVISORS WIC
NUTRITIONISTS WIC BREASTFEEDING COORDINATORS
PHYSICIANS NURSES IBCLCS  CLCS, CLES LA
LECHE LEAGUE LEADERS
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Peer Counselors Benefit from Their Jobs

• Feeling of accomplishment
• Pride in knowing you are making a difference
  for mothers and babies
• New job skills

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I never expected to reap so many gratifying
experiences from my work as a peer counselor. I
have been able to assist so many mothers to
successfully breastfeed their babies. I love the
opportunity to positively influence a mother and
her childs life. It is definitely the most
valuable work I have ever done. WIC Peer
Counselor