Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care Centers
What is Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care?
The New York State Department of Health's Obesity Prevention Program encourages new mothers to breastfeed their infants. The Department's Child and Adult Care Food Program encourages child care centers to support breast feeding families and recognizes these centers with Breastfeeding Friendly certificates.
Why should I breastfeed and continue to do so when I return to work or school?
- Breastfeeding protects babies from infections and delays the development of allergies. Breastfed babies are sick less often and are less likely to have constipation or diarrhea.
- Breastfeeding promotes a close bond between mother and baby and is a perfect way to "reconnect" after time apart.
- Breastfed babies are easier to care for because they are less prone to spitting up.
- Breast-fed babies learn how to control their appetites, which helps prevent the development of obesity.
- Breastfeeding saves money by eliminating, or reducing, the cost of formula.
Why should I look for a breastfeeding friendly center?
Breastfeeding friendly centers have written policies to support breastfeeding families. If you place your baby in a Breastfeeding Friendly center, you can expect a certain standard of care:
- You will be welcome to breastfeed in the center
- You will receive accurate information about breastfeeding.
- Staff in Breastfeeding Friendly centers are trained to provide breastfeeding information and support to help you continue to breastfeed when you return to work or school.
Where can I find Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care?
Where can I find more information on Breastfeeding?
- NYSDOH Breastfeeding Curriculum for grades K through 12
Activities and teaching tools for breastfeeding education are located in the curriculum. It is intended to help students develop a well-informed attitude toward breastfeeding while studying other content areas. - Breastfeeding Partners
This site provides information for breastfeeding mothers and their families, pregnant women, peer counselors and the WIC program.