Cofounders Andrea Syms-Brown (Trinidad and Tobago) and Peter Brown (Jamaica) had a vision of providing practical and accessible continuous care to breastfeeding families everywhere. In keeping with this vision, cofounders conceptualized Baby in the Family (BitFam) as a lactation consulting practice grounded in the newborn care and breastfeeding traditions of Caribbean families. 

 

At conception, Andrea had already been an Independent Newborn Care Specialist/Educator for several years with a yearning to serve the breastfeeding community, starting in New York (NY). With Peter spear-heading the growth initiatives, Andrea became an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant in 2000 and quickly specialized in the Hands Off Technique (HOT). In 2006, both cofounders Certified in Infant Massage Instruction. As Andrea continued to hone her expertise, she was called to serve as both President (2012-14) and Education Director (2008-12) of the New York Lactation Consultant Association. Inevitably, BitFam grew into a reputable lactation consulting practice in NY, using a holistic approach to gently bring Baby into the flow of family life.

 

Andrea's extensive and successful lactation consulting experience, coupled with Peter's unwavering support as Managing Director, BitFam easily evolved into a Virtual Lactation Education and Support Services company, offering practical support for families. Andrea has most recently retired, so as of January 1 2026, BitFam services includes an on-demand Caring for a Newborn streaming workshop, prenatal breastfeeding education discussion class and private virtual breastfeeding support. Her services are still offered virtually, thus continuing to expand the BitFam reach to breastfeeding communities everywhere, as envisioned!