Tag Archives: Breastfeeding in public

Summer Fun With Baby: Summer Breastfeeding Tips

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Tips for breastfeeding in the summertimeSummer is the perfect time to have fun, relax and create lovely memories with your baby. For a breastfeeding mom, this can mean you’ll spend more time breastfeeding your baby on-the-go, but don’t worry, there are many ways to relax this summer and provide the best nutrition possible for your baby. Follow some of these tips and suggestions for breastfeeding during the summer.

Stay Hydrated. Drinking lots of water is critical for general hydration, so when the temperature rises, don’t leave home without a water bottle. However, when it comes to your breastfeeding baby, it’s not necessary to feed your little one water. As long as you stay hydrated and breastfeed often, your baby will get all the fluids he or she needs

Relax Poolside. Breastfeeding works best when mom and baby are as relaxed and comfortable as possible. So, it is no surprise breastfeeding can become more difficult in the summer months when mom and baby are out in the heat. But, a dip in a pool can be the perfect remedy. You get to cuddle with your baby in a relaxing pool, and get some great skin-to-skin bonding time. Although it’s not recommended to breastfeed in a pool, a quick dip can help relax you both and cool you down so you’ll be ready to breastfeed when swim time is over.

Breastfeed Whenever and Wherever Your Little One is Hungry. The warm weather brings many more opportunities for comfortable and discreet breastfeeding, even when in public. Summer outfits are often the best breastfeeding outfits because they’re loose enough for discreet breastfeeding and light enough to keep you comfortable. Also, you may find more discreet and relaxing places to breastfeed your little one outdoors. How does breastfeeding under the shade of a tree, under an umbrella at the beach or on a quiet park bench sound?

Travel Prepared. Sometimes summer activities aren’t as cool and comfortable as relaxing in a pool, so be sure you and your baby are prepared. Taking a stroll with baby, watching a summer parade or squeezing in a quick run with your jogging stroller can be fun, just make sure you’re baby is cool and protected from the sun. Always keep your baby in the shade or under a stroller canopy or umbrella. Also, if your baby is over 6 months of age, be sure you have sunscreen available for any unexpected exposure. A cap or brimmed hat can also be beneficial to keep sun off your babies face. This will keep your baby from getting to fussy while you’re out and about and make sure they can relax and focus on breastfeeding when they’re hungry.

What memories have you created this summer with your baby? Share how you incorporated breastfeeding into these activities.

Tips for Breastfeeding In Public

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Breastfeeding In Public

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural connections between you and your baby, so it’s no wonder many moms choose to breastfeed in public. However, breastfeeding moms sometimes experience criticism for making that decision. It’s important to stay confident and know your rights about breastfeeding in public.

Laws About Breastfeeding In Public

45 states have specific laws supporting breastfeeding in public, some of which offer additional protection. Feel free to review the laws for your specific state, as it may bring added comfort in knowing the government supports your baby’s needs.

Responding to Breastfeeding Criticism

Unfortunately, public breastfeeding criticism does still exist in our culture, but don’t let that stop you. Here are some ways to respond if someone criticizes you or simply has a question about what you’re doing:

  • Explain the benefits of breastfeeding and your commitment to providing the best nutrition for your little one (pssst – we have a long list of breastfeeding benefits).
  • If someone is being rude or disrespectful to your baby’s needs, it’s ok to entirely ignore them. You know you’re doing what’s best for your baby, so don’t feel obligated to explain yourself.
  • Calmly discuss differences in opinion, without accepting their criticism. Disagreements happen, so don’t be afraid to defend your values.
  • Explain the demands of breastfeeding and how often you need to breastfeed in order to provide for your little one.
  • Tell them that every family is different and this is what works best for your family.

Tips for Breastfeeding In Public

Some moms have questions about how to discreetly breastfeed in a public place. Here are some suggestions to try:

  • Experiment with different loose-fitting shirts that allow for easy access to your breast.
  • Try a breastfeeding blanket if it makes you more comfortable. Many wrap around your shoulders and cover your breasts while feeding.
  • Keep your baby close with a baby sling. Many slings keep your baby in a natural breastfeeding position making it extremely easy to start breastfeeding on-the-go.
  • Practice how you would breastfeed in public in the comfort of your home. Once you feel familiar, you can begin breastfeeding in other places outside of the home.

Moms, do you have any tips to add about breastfeeding in public? How do you manage breastfeeding criticism? Share your tips in the comments below.