I'm a local lactation consultant and I help run 3 different drop-in sessions across Haringey. I just want to take a moment to encourage new mums to come along to breastfeeding drop-ins EVEN IF they don't necessarily have an issue they need to discuss and if everything is going well.
It's a chance just to meet other mums and talk about daily life and just say hello. You might be able to offer support to someone else or just be able to make them a cup of tea!
Breastfeeding drop-ins aren't just for when you have a problem that needs to be solved or if you need some trained support. Research shows that mums who have regular contact with other breastfeeding mums tend to breastfeed for longer and reach their own breastfeeding goals more successfully.
The Highgate Family Centre, Gaskell Road, N6 4ED drop-in on Thursdays 12.30-2.30 (led by Mandy Rabin, a lactation consultant and La Leche League leader) is in a lovely space and people are welcome just to turn up for a chat and a play. You can contact Mandy through her website www.lovebreastfeeding.co.uk
Rokesly Avenue children's centre, Elmfield Avenue, N8 8QG has their breastfeeding buddies session on Fridays 12.30-2.30 (and the second half is alongside the regular stay and play with snacks and songs). The session is led by Sally Brooks (NCT bf counsellor and Lactation Consultant) and Emma Pickett (ABM bf counsellor and Lactation Consultant). Emma can be contacted through her website www.emmapickettbreastfeedingsupport.com.
You are also welcome to make contact if you want to prepare for breastfeeding while you are still pregnant. Both Mandy and Emma's sites list the groups available in Haringey throughout the week.