What is the Purpose of the CLE? The purpose of the CAPPA lactation educator program is to provide childbirth professionals comprehensive training in breastfeeding education. When a candidate completes the certification program they will be qualified to teach, support, and educate the public on breastfeeding and related issues. When all additional requirements have been satisfactorily completed through CAPPA Academy, candidates will be issued the CAPPA credential, Certified Lactation Educator (CLE®).
Currently, many CAPPA CLEs are employed across the United States and internationally. CAPPA CLE®s can be found teaching breastfeeding classes in hospitals and private settings, peer counselors, as educators on hospital postpartum floors, working as breast pump rental technicians and in breastfeeding support stores, and facilitating breastfeeding and postpartum support groups - just to name a few. Many of our CAPPA CLE®s also use this certification to round out their labor and postpartum doula services and knowledge to ensure they are providing the highest quality services for breastfeeding support.
Who should take the CLE Training? The three-day intensive lactation training fulfills the Baby Friendly and Core Competencies requirements. It is a wonderful refresher course and a valuable training for anyone working with moms and babies. Nurses often take the course to gain lactation knowledge or add to their resume in the highly competitive field. This training also fulfills the requirements for several organizations that require breastfeeding training, including, but not limited to:
The three-day training alone provides an excellent overview of lactation and completes the training for a Lactation Educator.
Do I have to pursue certification? No, the CLE three-day, in-person training stands alone in fulfilling the requirements for Peer Counselor Training, BFHI Lactation Hours, Core Competencies and Lactation Educator training, Certification is not required following the training, but it is highly recommended. Certification adds prestige and accountability to the profession. Employers can evaluate a applicant based on the certification requirements completed. There is a huge value in pursing certification. Not only will you learn much more through the process, you will also be qualified to add CLE to your title. Many hospitals and clinics require certification as a condition for employment.
What is the Total Financial Investment to become Certified? Once the CLE Training is completed, those interested in certifying must also become a member of CAPPA ($75 annual fee), enroll in the online course "CAPPA Academy" ($175), complete "Understanding Your Baby" InJoy Module ($25) and pass the Scope of Practice Intensive Review (FREE)
Certification is awarded to those who complete the coursework and pass an online exam. You can earn the CLE title, and begin your amazing new career for a small investment of only $770. Questions? Email the instructor prior to registering.
What are all the steps to Certification? The Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association has developed a certification process that enables educators to instruct in a wide range of breastfeeding areas. The certification process is important because it signifies a level of competence to those seeking a Certified Lactation Educator. Since it would be impossible to thoroughly understand the position of the Certified Lactation Educator in only three days, CAPPA has developed an on-line course that gives a thorough overview. In order to achieve certification, individuals must:
Attend and fulfill the requirements for the 20 Hour CAPPA CLE Training (the three day training offered above)
Join CAPPA (benefits include website listing, free admission to the annual conference, complete with CEUs, etc.)
Enroll in CAPPA Academy (includes all requirements and downloads)
Complete requirements outlined in CAPPA Academy (individuals currently working in the birthing/breastfeeding or education field will find many of the requirements are completed in their daily work, others may need to make more of an effort, but the CAPPA CLE Trainer will be available for mentoring and guidance through the process, and applicants have 2 years to complete the certification)
Individuals currently working in the lactation field may qualify for the Accelerated Program.
Do I qualify for the Accelerated Program? In order to enter this program, you must meet one of these requirements. Copies of licenses/certifications required.
Be a currently licensed RN with at least one year lactation experience working with mothers and babies who are breastfeeding. Proof required in the form of a letter from nurse manager or administrator stating nursing experience and specific breastfeeding support.
Be a La Leche League Leader with at least two years of experience.
Be a certified childbirth educator (with CAPPA, Bradley, ICEA, Lamaze or Birthworks) who has taught a minimum of 12 breastfeeding classes. Proof required in the form of class rosters and/or evaluations and CCCE certificate.
Be a WIC Peer Counselor or Registered Dietician with at least 2 years breastfeeding support experience.
If you are with a different organization or have a tremendous amount of breastfeeding experience and have had specific BF experience and training, you can also apply to be accepted into the accelerated program. For clarification, write Laurel at [email protected].
How long after the CLE Training do I have to complete the Certification Steps? Students have two years from their training date to complete the certification process. Membership has many advantages. CAPPA members may attend the annual conference free (break out sessions not included), join networking sites and Yahoo groups and advertise their services on their own profile listing. Enrollment in CAPPA Academy also affords many advantages. Students who enroll in CAPPA Academy also gain access to the widely acclaimed Grow Your Birth Business Program by Emily Fontes. CAPPA is proactive in supporting its students in the birth business. Enrolling in the certification process puts you in a position to receive mentoring, advice and support from those established in the business.
How long is my Certification valid? Once an individual becomes certified, the certification is valid for three years. After three years, students must re-certify.
Is it possible to apply for a host scholarship? Yes, there are two host scholarships I offer. Please look at the current offerings for a Silver or Gold Scholarship. If you would like to pursue this option, please download our contract and contact us at [email protected]