If only babies came with instructions—especially in those early years when parents are overwhelmed, overtired, run-down, and somehow still blissed out. That’s exactly where lactation counselor and educator Nicole Rende of Latchsmith - comes to the rescue. Nicole is the expert I wish I had in those early days… months… even years. (Nicole, do you teen attitude adjustments too?) Her deep expertise is matched only by her calming, approachable, positive presence—something you feel the moment you meet her.
Nicole’s knowledge comes from her intensive training, studying with the Healthy Children Project, and being certified through The Academy of Lactation Policy and Practices. However, she’s candid in describing her own postpartum journey after the birth of her first son. She’s been through it too. “It really shocked me how hard it was emotionally. I had been a nanny for over 10 years and I really thought I knew what to do. But the struggle with emotions, hormones and feeding my son, who had trouble latching, was just too much.” Battling anxiety and depression, she needed support and found that guidance with a local mom’s group run by a lactation counselor along with postpartum therapy. “I surpassed my feeding goal and felt like myself again. Because of that, I wanted to give back and pay it forward! Becoming a Lactation Counselor myself felt like the best place to start.”
Since building Latchsmith, Nicole’s compassionate approach has been led by her patience and kindness, making sure her clients feel seen and validated. She works with both first-time and experienced parents throughout the Tri-state area. Nicole is quick to note, “I had challenges again with my second baby that were completely different than my first. Every birth and feeding experience is different. I love that the clients I help are all different. It makes the job exciting and I’m always learning since every situation is unique.”
Among the first steps of support after an initial intake and assessment is assisting in creating a reasonable plan to reach desired goals. “I help the parent find and set up an ideal place to feed the baby and assist in positioning for the best latch. Many times, it just takes some simple tweaks. Sometimes it takes more. Together with both parents, we will create a plan to get mom and baby feeding happily.” Also in, Latchsmith’s tool box is helping with proper bottle feeding techniques, pumping and flange fitting, sleeping and any other concerns parents may have. Nicole offers prenatal workshops, support groups, and private consults, all with the goal of educating and empowering her clients. “I also support parents ready to end their breastfeeding journey. This can be a very sensitive and emotional time for both the parent and the child. They learn how to navigate and accomplish their new goals.” Another benefit of having Nicole on speed dial is she can collaborate with parents of toddlers who are ready to be diaper-free with her Potty Learning Workshops and consults. “I refer to this as potty learning. It is a learning process for both the parent and child. I cover the four key stages for potty learning success. The approach is gentle, stress-free and all-inclusive.
Her one piece of advice? Parents need to be aligned on their goals for the baby. “The birth experience and the hours and days after can be so hard! If both parents know their plan and goals before, they will have an easier time expressing that to their team. Nicole is a vital support system for parents during one of the most meaningful and fraught stages of life. The impact on young families and the relationships she cultivates with her clients is truly special. “I am honored that parents invite me in to help them at such a delicate time. I remember how I felt, and I always want to be sensitive and respectful of what they need. When parents message me months later or send pictures of their babies growing and happy, I am so grateful I chose to do this work.”
Latchsmith
914-659-5561
latchsmith.com @latchsmith22
"I am honored that parents invite me in to help them at such a delicate time."