In order for candidates to be eligible for CAPPA certification they must sign and agree to the CAPPA Code of Conduct, Scope of Practice and Grievance Policy.

Cost for Traditional Certification

$45.00 Membership fee
$35.00 Certification Packet
$75.00 Certification Processing Fee
$225-350 Cost of training varies depending on trainer and region of country.
 

Please note *Please submit all certification materials together at one time when you complete the program.
*Please keep copies of all certification materials in case of accidental post office loss.

**CAPPA reserves the right to withhold certification to those candidates that do not meet the requirements set forth. CAPPA also reserves the right to withhold certification based on all contact with candidates for certification, including , but not limited to phone calls, e-mails, and certification materials. An understanding of CAPPA standards of professionalism, our scope of practice and code of conduct must be demonstrated by candidates at all times and in all communications. Failure to demonstrate an understanding of the aforementioned may result in CAPPA withholding certification. This is rare.

CAPPA does not guarantee certification will be obtained by entering our program. Over 92% of candidates do obtain certification.

Certification Results Policy-
Please allow approximately 4 weeks for CAPPA to grade and process your certification materials once we receive them. CAPPA receives a high volume of certification request, each certification request is given individual attention.
Thank you for your cooperation.
 

1. Be a member of CAPPA in good standing. (All CAPPA certified professionals are required to maintain continuous membership. A lapse in your CAPPA membership will result in a 50.00 reinstatement fee and all overdue membership dues must be paid. CAPPA certified professionals who let their membership lapse more than 120 days must pay a 100.00 reinstate fee plus all past due membership dues.)
 

2. Take the pre-coursework study guide and submit to CAPPA.
 

3. Purchase the CAPPA Lactation Educator Manual and certification packet and submit answers to the Self Test Questions.

 

4. Submit a detailed C.V., Curriculum Vitae, or resume.
 

5. Write a one page personal essay on why you want to be a CLE™.
 

6. Choose and read five (5) books from the CAPPA required reading list for Lactation Educators. One book must be Breastfeeding and Human Lactation by Jan Riordan. Submit a one page report on each book.
 

7. Attend a local breastfeeding education class. Write a two page (minimum) review.
 

8. Attend four local La Leche League or Nursing Mother's Council meetings.
 

9. Choose 2 breastfeeding topics and complete a research paper on each, minimum 1500 words each paper. Any topic that involves breastfeeding is acceptable. Submit a copy of your class outline, curriculum and any handouts.
 

10. Submit two (2) letters of recommendation from a Certified Lactation Consultant, Certified Lactation Educator, Certified Childbirth Educator, Registered or Licensed Healthcare Professional.
 

11. Attend a minimum of four hours of breastfeeding consultations as an observer/volunteer with an IBCLC. Submit a one page summary on what you observed.
 

12.   

A. Provide Proof of 18-20 Hour WHO BF workshop completion. (Within two years from Program submission date)

Or;

B. Complete an 0n-Line Distance Course through Mohawk College.

Or;

C.  Take and pass the online breastfeeding course recognized by CAPPA. Must submit proof of purchase of on-line course and passing grade to CAPPA when submitting your final certification materials

13. Review 3 current research studies (study published in the past 2 years). Write a two page review of each study. Compare and contrast two of the studies and write a comparison study of at least 500 words.
 

14. Create and submit to CAPPA a local resource list for CLE clients.
 

15. Pass an open book test on Lactation Educator program with a grade of 85% or better. This is included in this certification packet.
 

16. In order for candidates to be eligible for CAPPA certification, they must sign and agree to abide by the CAPPA Philosophy, code of conduct, scope of practice and grievance policy.

Cost for Distance Certification

$45.00 Membership fee
$160 Online Breastfeeding Course
$220.00 Distance Program Fee
$75.00 Processing Fee

 

Certification Results Policy-
Please allow approximately 4 weeks for CAPPA to grade and process your certification materials once we receive them. CAPPA receives a high volume of certification request, each certification request is given individual attention.
Thank you for your cooperation.
 

Please note *Please submit all certification materials together at one time when you complete the program.
*Please keep copies of all certification materials in case of accidental post office loss.

**CAPPA reserves the right to withhold certification to those candidates that do not meet the requirements set forth. CAPPA also reserves the right to withhold certification based on all contact with candidates for certification, including , but not limited to phone calls, e-mails, and certification materials. An understanding of CAPPA standards of professionalism, our scope of practice and code of conduct must be demonstrated by candidates at all times and in all communications. Failure to demonstrate an understanding of the aforementioned may result in CAPPA withholding certification. This is rare.

CAPPA does not guarantee certification will be obtained by entering our program. Over 92% of candidates do obtain certification.

In order to be a candidate for the accelerated program you must meet one of the following conditions:

1. Be a currently licensed RN with at least one year lactation experience working with mother's and babies who are breastfeeding. Experience does not have to be strict lactation support. Proof required in the form of a letter from nurse manager or administrator stating nursing experience.
 

2. Be a La Leche League Leader with at least two years of experience. Proof required.
 

3. Be a Certified Childbirth Educator, who has taught a minimum of 12 breastfeeding classes. Proof required in the form of class rosters and CBE certificate.

Certification Requirements
1. Be a member of CAPPA.
 

2. Enter CAPPA certification program by purchasing the Certification Packet.
 

3. Write a one page personal essay on why you want to be a CLE™.
 

4. Submit a detailed C.V. Curriculum Vitae, or resume.
 

5. Read three (3) books from required reading list. One must include Breastfeeding and Human Lactation by Jan Riordan.
 

6. Attend a CAPPA approved Lactation Educator training. Prior to taking the workshop, submit the pre-test to your Trainer. (Available on the web and in this packet.)
 

7. Two letters of recommendation from a Certified Lactation Consultant, Certified Lactation Educator, Certified Childbirth Educator, Registered or Licensed Healthcare Professional.
 

8. Submit a copy of your class outline, curriculum and any handouts. (Form I)
 

9. Create and submit to CAPPA a local breastfeeding resource guide.
 

10. Pass an open book test with an 85% or better for the Certified Lactation Educator. This is included in this certification packet.

In order for candidates to be eligible for CAPPA certification they must sign and agree to the CAPPA Code of Conduct, Scope of Practice and Grievance Policy.

In the event a candidate fails to pass certification requirements, the candidate has up to one (1) year to complete the failed portions of the certification requirements. There will be no further processing fees. The candidate who exceeds one (1) year to complete the aforementioned portions of certification may be asked to re-enter the certification program and may incur additional fees.

Note: when submitting certification packet, please do not send originals.

Cost for Accelerated Certification

$45.00 Membership fee
$35.00 Certification Packet
$75.00 Certification Processing Fee
$275-375 Cost of training varies depending on trainer and region of country.

Please note *Please submit all certification materials together at one time when you complete the program.
*Please keep copies of all certification materials in case of accidental post office loss.

Certification Results Policy-
Please allow approximately 4 weeks for CAPPA to grade and process your certification materials once we receive them. CAPPA receives a high volume of certification request, each certification request is given individual attention.
Thank you for your cooperation.
 

**CAPPA reserves the right to withhold certification to those candidates that do not meet the requirements set forth. CAPPA also reserves the right to withhold certification based on all contact with candidates for certification, including , but not limited to phone calls, e-mails, and certification materials. An understanding of CAPPA standards of professionalism, our scope of practice and code of conduct must be demonstrated by candidates at all times and in all communications. Failure to demonstrate an understanding of the aforementioned may result in CAPPA withholding certification. This is rare.

CAPPA does not guarantee certification will be obtained by entering our program. Over 92% of candidates do obtain certification.

In order for candidates to be eligible for CAPPA certification they must sign and agree to the CAPPA philosophy, code of conduct, scope of practice and grievance policy.

Scope of practice
Certified Lactation Educator

Lactation Educators fill an important function in educating and supporting families interested in learning about breastfeeding. This education may take place in the public, hospital, clinical or private setting. Lactation Educators provide informational, emotional and practical support of breastfeeding. They may provide this service exclusively as breastfeeding educators, or may use their training to augment their support in other professions, in the cases of doulas, childbirth educators, nurses, dietitians, and postnatal or parenting educators. In addition to providing breastfeeding information, Lactation Educators offer encouragement, companionship, an experienced point of view, and foster confidence and a commitment to breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding education is not restricted to new families, but applies to the general public and medical staff as well. Due to the limited breastfeeding information given in standard medical and nursing training, and the rampant misinformation about breastfeeding that is so prevalent in our society, the breastfeeding educator serves as a resource for accurate, evidence-based information to the public and health care providers, as well as to childbearing families.

CAPPA does not issue Certified Lactation Consultant status, nor does the Lactation Educator Program qualify a member to dispense medical advice, diagnose or prescribe medication. However, Lactation Educators provide a wealth of information about how and why to breastfeed; establishing a breastfeeding-friendly environment; basic breastfeeding
anatomy and physiology; the normal process of lactation; deviations from normal; physical, emotional and sociological barriers to breastfeeding; overcoming challenges; and resources available (including medical referrals) for the breastfeeding family. They can also be a source of vital support, guidance and encouragement throughout the duration of breastfeeding.

CLE™ Program FAQ

How are CAPPA's Lactation Education programs different from other breastfeeding courses or programs?

Our program is designed for those who would like to teach breastfeeding classes either privately, in groups like at hospitals, parenting centers, etc., or use the credential and education to complement their doula and/or childbirth educator practices.

Do your Lactation Education training's qualify me to sit for the IBLCE exam?

No. Our training's are Lactation Education training's, not breastfeeding management courses. We are geared towards those who wish to educate, not for those who wish to prepare to sit the IBLCE exam at this time. Our courses are not IBLCE exam prep courses, with the exception of some of Vergie Hughes' courses. Please see our training's page for more information. http://www.cappa.net/canadatraining.asp

If you wish to sit for the IBLCE exam, please see the IBLCE website for instructions, qualifications and pathways.http://www.iblce.org

What do you train your Lactation Educators to do?

We teach normal and unique breastfeeding situations and management, the role of the Lactation Educator, scope of practice, counseling the nursing mother, what to refer out to healthcare providers such as IBCLCs, MDs or Midwives. We assume that our attendees are higher level learners who already know the basics of breastfeeding.

Another part of what we teach is how to set up a class, interesting teaching techniques, and compassionate communication with the new breastfeeding family, which most breastfeeding management/exam preparation courses do not offer.

What exactly is a CAPPA Certified Lactation Educator?

We are like childbirth educators, except that we are breastfeeding educators. We can also act as counselors, referring out issues that are out of scope of practice to IBCLCs, MDs or group support to LLL. We have a position paper about our Lactation Education programs available at Lactation Educator Position Paper

 

Atlanta, Georgia, November 23, 2004 - Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association, CAPPA, acquired ownership of the registered trademark of CLE, Certified Lactation Educator, as of November 16, 2004. The Certified Lactation Educator Program provides candidates with complete evidenced-based training for offering private and public breastfeeding classes, advocacy, and support. This international program has been developed to provide the highest quality educators in the lactation field. The American Academy of Pediatrics, The World Health Organization, the National Medical Association and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists all believe that the contribution of breastfeeding to maternal and infant health is so significant that they have set forth policies to promote its practice. CAPPA also believes in the necessity of breastfeeding and in supporting the Healthy People 2010 Goals: 75% of women breastfeeding immediately postpartum, 50% at 6 months postpartum, and 25% at one year postpartum. CAPPA’s CLE certification program will help provide the nation with the best educators to help increase breastfeeding initiation and duration rates.

For educators to acquire this sought after certification, CAPPA offers three tracks toward CLE status. The first track is a traditional program, which requires candidates to attend an intensive two-day workshop. Candidates must also work through thirteen certification steps over the course of two years, culminating in the CLE Exam to acquire certification as a CLE. Additional tracks include the distance program and the accelerated program as alternatives to the traditional program.

Lactation Educators play a critical role in providing breastfeeding education and support. CAPPA now offers the only “CLE” Certification through its registered and trademarked program. Become one of the exclusive Certified Lactation Educators offering accurate, evidenced-based information to health care providers and the public to promote a breastfeeding friendly culture.

For additional information, contact Laurel Wilson, CLE, CCCE, CLD at cledirector@cappa.net or go to www.cappa.net.

CAPPA is a non-profit international organization that was founded in 1998 to offer the highest level of professional membership and training to childbirth educators, lactation educators, labor doulas, antepartum doulas and postpartum doulas. CAPPA offers the highest level of evidence- based training available. The organization consists of a leadership board, regional representatives, trainers, mentors, advisors and its membership. CAPPA is the most comprehensive pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum organization available...caring for women before, during, and after birth through education and support.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Laurel Wilson, CLE, CCCE, CLD

CAPPA Director of Lactation Programs
CAPPA, Childbirth and Postpartum Professionals Organization
info@cappacanada.ca
http://www.cappacanada.ca

Have questions? E-mail us at info@cappacanada.ca

Or call 1-866 Cdn Birth (236-2478)

Please note * The requirements for the CAPPA CLE program have been changed as of 8/9/04.
If you entered the program prior to this date please use the steps to certification listed in your certification packet.

Please note *Please submit all certification materials together at one time when you complete the program.
*Please keep copies of all certification materials in case of accidental post office loss.

Certification Results Policy-
Please allow approximately 4 weeks for CAPPA to grade and process your certification materials once we receive them. CAPPA receives a high volume of certification request, each certification request is given individual attention.
Thank you for your cooperation.
 

Re-certification requirements

Lactation Educator Position Paper