The Winnebago County Health Department recognized Arts for Kids Childcare and Davis Childcare Center for being the first childcare centers to be designated as "Breastfeeding Friendly".
To earn the designation the centers had to establish a "supportive brestfeeding environment". That includes a private, comfortable area for breastfeeding mothers to nurse or pump, adopt policies that support breastfeeding moms and the center's staff is trained in how to handle breast milk.
The Winnebago County Health Department says this is important because 84% of pregnant mothers plan to breastfeed after delivery, but upon returning to work many mothers stop breastfeeding. Creating environments that make it easier for mothers to continue breastfeeding will help them continue long after they return to work.
Breastfeeding provides long-lasting health benefits for mothers and babies such as protection from infections and chronic diseases and lowering a baby's risk of obesity and SIDS.
The Health Department says by enrolling infants in a designated breasfeeding friendly child care center, mothers can return to work without worrying about whether or not to continue breasfeeding. Instead, mothers are able to develop a meaningful relationship with well-trained, confident staff that are equipped with the tools to support their breastfeeding decision.
Lactation Consultant and WIC peer counselor at Winnebago County Health Department.
