Abstract
The Lactation Education Accreditation and Approval Review Committee (LEAARC) Board of Directors is excited to announce the release of the 2nd edition of the Core Curriculum for Interdisciplinary Lactation Care (Spencer et. al., 2022)! As the title suggests, this text continues to be a trustworthy source for lactation specific education for anyone who works with breastfeeding parents and families. An interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals contributed their expertise in lactation science and clinical practice to provide the foundational knowledge needed to support breastfeeding parents and families.
The second edition of the Core Curriculum for Interdisciplinary Lactation Care complements the LEAARC Core Curriculum used in recognition of lactation education programs. The text is written in a concise outline format so that the information is easily digestible for readers, especially novice learners. Some of the key updates and new features include:
Extensive updates to reflect new scientific evidence. Topics that include significant updates include biochemistry of human milk, breast pathology, the Neonatal Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative, lactation and mental health, breastfeeding multiples, and low milk production/infant weight gain.
Broadly developed case studies that provide real world application for students to apply knowledge.
Teaching notes for instructors to use in a variety of classroom and clinical settings, for example, experiential learning opportunities with simulation and open education resources.
Inclusive language and diverse family representation.
Focus on lactation professionals acting as change agents in their local and global communities.
Every new print copy includes access to the Navigate eBook.
For lactation support to make a difference for health promotion and disease prevention in our global communities, all health professionals who interact with families must have foundational knowledge, and confidence in their ability to support families in meeting their infant feeding goals. Recognizing the continued need for interprofessional education that is based on up-to-date research and practice-informed care, the Core Curriculum for Interdisciplinary Lactation Care is a must for anyone embarking on their lactation education journey, novice and expert alike. It is applicable for all Pathway 1, 2, and 3 Lactation Consultant Education courses, perinatal courses for nurses, midwives, physicians, public health professionals, and Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative programs. We are excited to present this new edition to you and feel it adds value to any lactation education course and all lactation consultants in practice.
