come in small packages they say. But they come in big packages too. One of the “big packages” that comes with midwifery care is the apprenticeship model of learning. It’s not enough to read about, “practice”, and then take a test to become a midwife. The apprenticeship model includes hundreds of hours following around an experienced midwife, asking questions, packing bags, asking more questions, practicing, seeing, watching, being still and in the background, being in the front and center of the action, sitting in the other room, and sometimes (finally) gloving up and being ready to catch a baby! And only THEN do we “take the test”! 
I’m so thankful for the midwives that were willing to see me through my apprenticeship. To be willing to be available for a student is almost like adopting a child. Even if they don’t need that much from you in terms of actual TEACHING, you are putting your name on the line – saying that you are responsible for what they do and don’t do correctly, being willing to be accountable for your actions and theirs as well is a big commitment and I’m thankful for those who took that responsibility for me. The gift is immeasurable in it’s enormity and I will forever be thankful. This is one of those things that you simply must be willing to do if you become a midwife. “Each one teach one” is not only a cool slogan – it’s a way of life for quality midwives: to train up women in traditional midwifery care while balancing the political and legal challenges that factor in to everything we do.
With that being said, I’m pleased to announce the addition of two more students into the Dar a Luz family of Student Midwives! I’ll be posting introductions and photos as soon as their preliminary requirements have been met. To current clients, you may be meeting these women soon at prenatal and postpartum visits. Future clients in the northland area – you are in for a treat. I’m expanding my services in the area (that means LOCAL prenatal care!) to accommodate these students learning needs and offering a significant discount for those of you willing to participate in this process. Rest assured, I am still the one accountable for your care and YOU are in charge of what the students do and do NOT do for your care. It can be individualized for your level of comfort with the student. However, I can promise you that the students who work with me work VERY hard to be ready for this phase of their training. And they are ready or I wouldn’t put my neck out there for them.
If you are interested in promoting quality midwifery care and would like more information on working with a student midwife under supervision please give me a call for more information! Kelly @660-383-6059
