Episode Summary:
In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret Salty interviews Christine Staricka, IBCLC, facilitator of Baby Café Bakersfield and lactation educator with Gold Learning. Together, they explore how Baby Cafés provide critical breastfeeding support, the challenges and rewards of running one, and tips for IBCLCs considering starting a Baby Café in their communities.
What is a Baby Café?
Christine explains the Baby Café model and how it differs from other lactation support groups. Topics include:
- The origins of Baby Café in the UK and how it expanded to the U.S.
- The unique blend of peer support and professional lactation care
- How Baby Cafés eliminate barriers by providing free access to IBCLCs
- Why data collection and reporting make Baby Cafés an evidence-based model
Funding and Sustainability: How Baby Cafés Operate
Christine breaks down the financial logistics of running a Baby Café, including:
- Common funding sources such as grants, hospital partnerships, and local donations
- How community organizations like libraries, WIC, and even zoos host Baby Cafés
- The relatively low startup costs and licensing fees required to open a Baby Café
- Strategies for securing long-term financial sustainability
A Day at Baby Café: What to Expect
Christine describes what a typical Baby Café meeting looks like, including:
- How parents are welcomed and introduced to the space
- The informal and supportive structure where all attendees can interact
- The role of IBCLCs, peer supporters, and other community professionals
- How weight checks and lactation assessments are integrated into the group setting
Challenges and Lessons from 11 Years of Baby Café Bakersfield
Christine shares the biggest challenges she has faced in over a decade of running a Baby Café, including:
- The difficulty of maintaining a consistent location and adapting to changes
- Staffing concerns and how to recruit and retain qualified IBCLCs and volunteers
- Navigating the need for bilingual support in a diverse community
- The impact of formula marketing and the ongoing fight against predatory messaging
Using Baby Cafés as a Training Ground for Future IBCLCs
One of the unique aspects of Baby Cafés is their ability to serve as a hands-on training site for IBCLC candidates. Christine discusses:
- How Baby Cafés provide valuable clinical experience for lactation students
- The types of cases students get exposure to in a community-based setting
- How mentoring future IBCLCs helps sustain and grow lactation support services
Advice for IBCLCs Interested in Starting a Baby Café
Christine offers practical guidance for IBCLCs considering launching a Baby Café, including:
- The first steps to take and how to assess community need
- Why partnering with an established organization can provide financial and logistical support
- The benefits of being part of Baby Café USA versus creating an independent lactation group
- Where to find resources and support to get started
Guest Info:
Christine Staricka, IBCLC, is the facilitator of Baby Café Bakersfield and an education planner with Gold Learning. She has worked in lactation for over a decade and is passionate about expanding access to evidence-based breastfeeding support.
🔗 Find Christine Online:
📸 Instagram: @ChristineStaricka
🌐 Gold Learning:
