Dear Parents,

We had to think for a while before including this next topic, because breastfeeding in public is a topic that sparks intense debate and controversy. As a society, we are still grappling with the complexities of this issue, considering factors such as religion, location, and exposure. In this blog post, we will explore the ongoing debate and examine both the backlash and positive reactions that breastfeeding in public can elicit.

The Importance of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the best way to feed infants, providing numerous health benefits for both the child and the mother. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, and continued breastfeeding up to two years or beyond. Despite these recommendations, many mothers face challenges and stigma when breastfeeding in public. Outside of this particular topic, don’t forget to come back on our topic about boosting your kids’ resilience.

The Role of Religion

Religion can play a significant role in how we view breastfeeding in public. Some religious communities may have specific guidelines or expectations regarding appropriate behavior, dress, and exposure to certain ideas or activities. For example, some Orthodox Jewish families may choose to limit their children’s exposure to secular media or activities on the Sabbath.

On the other hand, some religious parents may prioritize exposing their children to diverse experiences and perspectives, believing that it will help them develop a strong sense of self and understanding of the world around them. A Christian family in the American South might take their children to a local mosque to learn about Islam and promote interfaith understanding.

The Impact of Location

The location in which we raise our children can also shape how we view breastfeeding in public. In some communities, public breastfeeding may be widely accepted and normalized, while in others, it may be met with disapproval or even hostility. A mother in New York City, Brussels or Madrid may feel comfortable breastfeeding her child in a cafe, while a mother in a more conservative town might feel the need to find a private space to do so.

The Role of Exposure

The level of exposure we choose to give our children in public can also be a source of debate. Some parents may prioritize shielding their children from certain topics or experiences until they are older, while others may believe in early exposure and open discussion.

For example, a parent who believes in early sex education might choose to have age-appropriate conversations with their child about relationships and consent, even in public spaces. Another parent might prefer to wait until their child is older before broaching these topics.

Backlash and Positive Reactions

When it comes to breastfeeding in public, we may face both backlash and positive reactions from others. A mother who chooses to breastfeed in public may face disapproving looks or even verbal criticism from onlookers who believe that such matters should be handled privately. A father who takes his son to a ballet class might encounter raised eyebrows or even outright hostility from those who believe that certain activities are gender-specific.

On the flip side, we may also encounter supportive and encouraging reactions from others who appreciate our efforts to nurture our children in a thoughtful and intentional way. A family who chooses to volunteer together at a local food bank might inspire others to follow suit, while a parent who takes their child to a diverse array of cultural events might be praised for their commitment to raising a well-rounded individual.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding in public is a complex issue that involves various factors such as religion, location, and exposure. As parents, we must navigate these waters with care, staying true to our values while also being respectful of the perspectives and experiences of others. By fostering open and honest dialogue, we can create a society that supports and uplifts all children, regardless of their background or circumstances.

We hope it helps,

The Smart Parenting Blog Team

References

Unicef UK. (2021). Guest blog: Thank you for breastfeeding in public – Unicef UK. Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/public-breastfeeding/

Maternity B. (2021). Normalizing Breastfeeding in Public: A Call for Acceptance and Support. Retrieved from https://maternityb.com/blogs/novidades/normalizing-breastfeeding-in-public-a-call-for-acceptance-and-support

KeaBabies. (2021). My Experience on Breastfeeding in Public – KeaBabies. Retrieved from https://keababies.com/blogs/keamommies-blog/my-experience-on-breastfeeding-in-public

Scripted. (2021). Top 10 Parenting Blogs by Organic Traffic – Scripted. Retrieved from https://www.scripted.com/blogs/parenting-blogs-by-organic-traffic