San Rafael moms have a champion in Marin native Georgia Montgomery. Well known for being the backbone of The Parent’s Center, moms with young children can find a safe haven under her wing. Her wealth of understanding and her amazing way with the little ones is an invaluable resource. Her organization has seen some changes in the recent months so it’s a real wonder she found time for this weeks’ Mom’s Chat!
How long have you been working with mothers and children?
I've been working with moms for at least 15 years, starting out as postpartum consultant, then childbirth assistant (also known as a doula) and then became a perinatal educator, first at CPMC in San Francisco, then Kaiser, where I still teach and at UCSF. I teach childbirth preparation, newborn care, breastfeeding, infant/child CPR and pediatric first aid and an early childhood music program called "Little Music Circle." I also facilitate new moms groups. (I was a musician/singer in my 20's and 30's.)
Did you learn by experience with your own children?
Absolutely! Giving birth, breastfeeding and raising my own wonderful children, now adults, of course, was how I learned to appreciate how important a job it is, to raise little ones. It was the most rewarding thing I have ever done, and teaching families now, during this "second chapter" of my life, runs a close second.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Watching parents and parents-to-be absorb the information and knowing that they feel more empowered to do the very best for their little ones is one of the greatest joys in my life. Being available to new mamas and facilitating
the creation of "tribes" of new mamas is very rewarding. (Also, sharing music with families and little ones, I have to say, is really great fun for me.)
What do you enjoy about the community of San Rafael?
The fact that the families I come into contact with here are so eager to create community and be supportive of others, is one of the best things about being here. I was raised in Marin County, so this incredibly beautiful spot on the planet is my favorite place to be.
What is the number one piece of advice you offer to new moms or any mom?
Trust yourself, trust your instincts and remember to reach out if it gets challenging or if you just want to be a part of the community of mamas here in Marin. Know that there is a warm and strong safety net that local childbirth and parenting professionals have quietly woven beneath you. If you open up and accept it, you just might have an even richer experience as you raise your little ones.
The location for new moms groups and classes has changed but The Parents Center continues to be online resource, availiable by email and phone, and in-person during groups and workshops. www.theparentscenter.com
