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A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post 5th Annual Breastfeeding World Celebration appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Summer, oh summer! It’s certainly one of the best seasons of the year but it’s also one of the busiest as well. Specially if you happen to live on the beautiful island of Martha’s Vineyard. 

This year Breastfeeding World hosted its third annual Martha’s Vineyard Big Latch On and boy was it a good one. Back on August 5^th, 16 Martha’s Vineyard breastfeeding moms came together once again to make this event a great one.

Some new faces and some returning mothers who year by year make these events well worth it.

One of the special things I love about our Martha’s Vineyard Latch On is how intimate and empowering it always is. I’ve been able to see how these mamas and babes grow in their journeys and this year I had the opportunity to photograph the same ladies I met back in 2015 when we held our very first Breastfeeding World photo session on the island.

This time around, they came with their new babes and a full-term nursling. (Kudos to Sarah and Mili, you make us proud!).

The beauty of breastfeeding and motherhood is that each journey is completely different and unique in its own way. Not only from mother to mother but from baby to baby as well. No matter how many books you may read or how many classes you may attend to, by the time that the baby comes you might be very informed as to what is about to happen but, are you really ready? Probably not.

During this year’s Martha’s Vineyard Big Latch On a momma told me she wasn’t sure whether or not I would continue on with the events due to me not nursing anymore… Let me take the chance and tell you all a short version of my story, the one probably none of you know….

My sweet mini-me was born on this gorgeous island, surrounded by beautiful landscapes that make this location THE place to be during summer.  My experience with giving birth was astounding, I went in not feeling prepared but my birthing team at the Hospital was amazing.

I was very fortunate, although my baby’s father was not present and I was/am a single momma, I had more than what I had wished for: I had my mother and my sister next to me, they were part of my unmedicated natural birth and everything that came thereafter.

I can assure you that without them my breastfeeding journey would’ve only been a few weeks affair.

My mother Bella and my sister Shelyn, two breastfeeding veterans with 8 children altogether knew exactly what to do in my moments of despair. With tears in my eyes I recall one time begging them to take my baby away because the pain of nursing and cracked nipples was unbearable. (Can you relate?)

Mom would cook all the healthy foods that my body needed to recover while Shelyn would help me take care of the baby. My mama would pass on some old wives’ tales from Ecuador while teaching me some great breastfeeding techniques and some massages to relief engorgement and potential clogged ducts.

With their support I made it past the challenging first three weeks of breastfeeding. Tears flowing down my face on several occasions but they never let me quit when I wanted to.

 

Our next milestone was 6 months, we made it. One full year, we made it. Eighteen months, we made it. Two years, we made it… until we kind of stopped keeping track.

My sweet mini-me nursed for 4 ½ years and weaned off earlier this year. Was it a bumpy ride? HELL YASS! Was it worth it? Every minute of it.

 

Today, as we lay down to sleep, (we bedshare baby!) there are nights where she turns looking for her ‘tities’. She knows that no milk comes out but she feels safe and that’s all that matters.

Did I encounter criticism for nursing beyond 2 years? Yes. Was it uncomfortable? At times, yes. Did it matter at the end? No. My baby has grown to be a sweet child who is happy and smiles quite often, she knows that mommy works so hard on Breastfeeding World and she loves helping me every way she can.

To you my sweet mama, who wasn’t sure the events would continue because I stopped nursing… Oh YES they will!

Little mini-me was who inspired me to start Breastfeeding World in the first place, our journey through breastfeeding and motherhood in general is what kept me going. Getting to know women who identified with each other in many ways was my fuel to push through.

Although we stopped nursing this year there are thousands of new mothers (and existing ones) that are going through their breastfeeding & motherhood journeys and they Need. Us. 

Breastfeeding World is bigger than my baby and I because now, all of you are part of its history as well as its success.

The Martha’s Vineyard Big Latch On is all about celebrating you, strong women and mothers who lift each other up. No matter in what phase of your motherhood journey you may be in, at some point you will need the support system that I thankfully had and that is what we aim to be for you all: the encouraging voice that pushes you through all the obstacles.

Let us all celebrate these amazing Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms, you are amazing!

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

2018 Breastfeeding World’s sponsors

We have so much love for our Platinum Sponsor @KindredBravely! Through the Spring and Summer they have sponsored our Breastfeeding Photoshoots and provided every guest with a nursing pad in our swag bag and each Big Latch On location with an amazing raffle prize for a mom! Find out more about them at Kindredbravely.com

@cookiesformilknyc  cookies are full of all the right ingredients and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Head to their website to read about the 5 galactogogues in their cookies. www.cookiesformilk.com. Cookies for Milk is a Diamond sponsor for Breastfeeding World’s multi-city Big Latch Ons! You were able to find awesome goodies from their line in every Swag Bag!

We loved having @fabulanebulae as our Gold Sponsors for our Seattle and Martha’s Vineyard Big Latch Ons! The Salve to Quiet the Storm was the first product Fabula Nebulae created, in the family’s search for a natural product to heal their children’s skin. The Quiet Storm is a soothing and calming concoction that is the base for all of Fabula Nebulae’s natural, fair trade products to meet every family’s needs!

What are your tips for saving every last drop of milk? For breastfeeding moms, we all know that leaky boob syndrome will happen at any time, any where. Thank goodness for Milk Savers from @fairhaven_health! As a Double Gold Sponsor for our multi-city Big Latch Ons, Moms in Seattle and New York City Big Latch Ons will have a chance to win one Fairhaven Health Prize pack, which includes Milk Savers! Tag a mom who needs this now! Get more from Fairhaven Health at FairhavenHealth.com

We’re so excited to announce @mollychanson as our Gold Sponsor for Breastfeeding World’s New York City Big Latch On! Molly is the designer and founder of Soulma, an urban women’s clothing brand that fits and flatters women in all stages of their life, including motherhood! Check out more of Molly’s awesome urban line at Soulma.com, plus enter to win an amazing 3-piece gift when you make a purchase using the code “SOULSUMMER” and save 20% as an added perk!

@mrspatels is a Gold Sponsor for Seattle’s Big Latch On event! We’re so excited to have them on board. Mrs. Patel’s lactation treats and teas are an awesome addition for moms who are looking for options to get the best nutrients in while building milk supply. You can check out more at www.mrsmilk.com!

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A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Guest Post Series by Molly Chanson of Soul Ma

The baby finally slept. My father in law leaned over the back of the couch and peered lovingly at baby Bennett, who was swaddled tightly inside his Moses basket. From my spot on the other side of the couch, I noticed the joy on his face as he watched his new grandson sleep. He had just come from the office and was wearing a simple cotton t-shirt tucked into black dress pants. It was a hot June day and I could hear people walking their dogs on the sidewalk outside. I glanced down at my socks and pajamas, and thought about what I would normally be doing on a sunny summer evening. Suddenly exhausted, I wanted to sleep myself.

“It’s fun being a new mommy, isn’t it?” he excitedly said.

“Yeah.” I smiled back and nodded.

I looked at my new son in the basket my friend had given to me. She’d used it with all 3 of her boys.

It was quite an adorable spot to lay the baby in–hand woven with pale yellow reeds and lined with soft, ivory fabric. It had two handles on the sides, each decorated with a tiny silk bow. For all purposes, it functioned as an actual basket. But, I was cautioned, it probably wasn’t a good idea to actually carry the baby in the basket, as the handles were purely for decoration. Despite this impractical aspect, it did create the perfect, magazine-worthy napping space for a baby.

“Well, I’m off but I’ll stop by again tomorrow! I love you.” My father-in-law kissed me on the forehead and gathered his things. As he walked down the stairs and noisily shut the door, the baby jumped. His eyelids twitched and his arms sprung loose from the swaddle.

I couldn’t breathe–please don’t wake up, not yet…

Bennett settled back into his slumber, and I slowly exhaled.

Me, the basket, and the baby, had been on this couch for days. The basket and the baby were so delicate and tender – when Bennett slept in it, everything looked like a magical scene out of Pottery Barn’s Nursery edition. And then there was me–unshowered, undressed, and unqualified.

Tears sprung to my eyes and I felt a knot form in my stomach.

How could I have been so naïve?

New babies were hard work. I was so in love, yet terrified at the same time. There are expectations around motherhood – everyone else around me was elated and celebrating.

I don’t think it’s ok to admit you’re scared of your own baby. I wouldn’t admit it –to myself, or to anyone.

This special guest post series are pieces from Molly Chanson, a sponsor for Breastfeeding World’s 2018 multi-city Big Latch On Events. She is the owner of Soul Ma, a high end clothing brand designed to help women conquer every stage of motherhood in fashion. Find her at our NYC Times Square Big Latch On!

Guest Post Sponsored by:

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

Feature Image: Nathan Burros

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A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post Latching on to Motherhood: Part 1 appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

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A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post Naturalidad Maternal – Mar del Plata’s Breastfeeding World Photo Session appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Breastfeeding is widely recognized as being the best option for your baby. It is known that breast milk is packed with nutrients your baby needs specially during the first six months of life. Any amount of breast milk is highly beneficial, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusively nursing for a minimum of 6 months.

With all the benefits that come with breastmilk, why is that Breastfeeding is so frowned upon by many?

“My opinion is that anybody offended by breastfeeding is staring too hard.” – David Allen

In society where women have been highly sexualized, it frustrating that breastfeeding is considered a controversial topic. Women are often harassed for nursing in public, they have the rights to breastfeed anywhere. Why is it that mothers face discrimination, embarrassment and insults for nurturing their babies in the most natural and humane way?

 

“There is one thing the photograph must contain, the humanity of the moment.”
— Robert Frank

Our  Breastfeeding World team believes that one picture is more powerful than a thousand words. Our movement began with our photography project in New York City and has changed the lives of many in the past 4 years through our photographers’ breathtaking images.

This year we are so happy to see our amazing photography community grow and to get to know women around the world who like us believe in the importance of normalizing breastfeeding one picture at a time.

We have the pleasure to have worked with the talented Raelyn Ramey who hosted a Breastfeeding World Photo Session in Des Moines, Iowa sponsored by Kindred Bravely.

Meet our Breastfeeding World photographer

Raelyn is an art photographer, who specializes in weddings. Her journey toward breastfeeding began when she had her own little girl, Eliisa. Not expecting the hiccups that would come in that journey, she soon found herself surrounded by love and support during a very emotional time. With the encouragement from her husband and the strangers that came forward to help feed her child so she could ultimately meet her goal of one year, is a gift she will forever be thankful for.

Raelyn soon decided that she wanted to find a way to give back to her community by providing small breastfeeding sessions to mama’s that wanted to document such an intimate moment in both of their lives. No matter the type of photo sessions, Raelyn strives to capture authentic, raw emotions through her art work. Find Raelyn’s work here and on Instagram.

An empowering day to remember

Nineteen strong, powerful, beautiful women came together to be part of our session: Mother Nurture -Awaken which took place this past May 20^th. Special thanks to Trixie’s Salon and their team of professional makeup artists who gave these moms a gift of makeup and hair for the session.

 

 

Des Moines, Iowa’s first Breastfeeding World Photo Session

“Nursing started off really easy for us. My 10mo old does have a small tongue tie but we opt out of getting it cut because it wasn’t affecting his weight gain and it wasn’t painful for me. Adrian is my first baby so everything was new to me. I do wish I had more knowledge on breastfeeding before I started because no one tells you how time consuming it can be, how dry and itchy your boobs can get or how engorgement hurts so bad. I will never forget the morning my milk came in and I woke up in so much pain. I didn’t know if I should pump, or if I should wake him up to nurse, I had no idea what was going on. I soon found out pumping helps with engorgement. I was cursed/blessed with over supply, It is a love hate thing. I love that I produce enough milk for not only my baby but for babies I donate to, but I hate pumping because It is so time consuming. I do love the bond breastfeeding gives you, the relaxing feeling, and the high you feel when the oxytocin is released. I love that I get tons of snuggles in with my boy each day. And as much as pumping sucks I am so glad I have been able to donated 2500oz so far!” – Ashlee Bliss, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“Our breastfeeding journey started out very rough because of a severe tongue tie. After a revision surgery and lots of work, he was able to nurse successfully. It has been a tremendous amount of work, and we fought hard to get to where we are now.” – Aerica Baker, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session

“Breastfeeding has been such an amazing journey! Emma is my 3rd baby, so I feel confident in all aspects of breastfeeding. I love the special bond I have with her! Before I had kids, I never knew I would become so passionate about breastfeeding.” – Ashley Osborn, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“I always knew I wanted to nurse my child. I remember vivid dreams before I was ever even pregnant of a beautiful baby with thick, dark, curly hair lovingly nestled on my breast.” – Samantha Damman, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“My breastfeeding journey hasn’t been the easiest. I always imagined it to be easy and natural because honestly that’s how people and society portrayed it. However it was anything but easy and it didn’t come naturally.” – Nicole Huber, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“Started feeding my baby when she was born & was not familiar with breastfeeding at all. I was the first in my family to have a baby and therefore it was all completely foreign to me.” – Stephanie Finnegan, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“I was blessed to breastfeed my son until he was 2.5 years old. Now I’m working through the challenge of nursing my twin rainbow girls. Tandem nursing is an interesting journey.” – Katie Johnson, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

 

“I exclusively pumped for over 2 mo this after my daughter had heart surgery. She is finally able to nurse again, and I couldn’t be happier! The bond we share is so strong, and I am so thankful for it!” – Wendy Alexander, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“I’ve been breastfeeding for almost two years, starting with the birth of my daughter Carmen and continuing with my 2-month-old Jonah. I’ve had moments that were challenging, funny, and beautiful.” – Jenny Comstock, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“I wasn’t sure what to expect with breastfeeding my daughter. I’m a first time mom and the experiences of the women I know who have breastfed were pretty varied.” – Rachel Vaughn, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“This is my second baby and breastfeeding, thankfully, had been fairly easy for us this time around. We had the normal kinks to work out in the beginning, but I’m so thankful we have made it this long!” – Katy Sowden, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“I started breastfeeding with my first born two and a half years ago. My only set goal was to nurse as long as she needed. One year breastfeeding quickly passed, and soon I was pregnant and nursing a toddler. Now, most nursing sessions include both of my babies.” – Marlise Boedeker, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“I have been blessed to be able to breastfeed all three of my children. My youngest, Maverick, is 9 months old now and I’m hoping to be able to breastfeed him until he is a year old.” – Veronica Evans, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“I had always thought breastfeeding would be easy since it was so natural but when my little one came into the world I realized that wasn’t always the case. We noticed that she wasn’t getting back up to her birth weight.” – Meredith Larson, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“I have successfully breastfed both of my children. However, in the beginning it wasn’t always easy due to others opinions. Throughout my journey, I encountered many people who were uncomfortable around breastfeeding.” – Brandi Rocknell, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“I have breastfed each of my older three girls each over two years and I have a 4 month old girl who is now breastfeeding.” – Sonya Hicks, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

“We had difficulties from the start. From an undiagnosed tongue and lip tie to low supply to allergies which forced me to change my own diet dramatically. We persevered and we are now at almost 15 months and still going strong.” – Samantha Pierce, 2018 Breastfeeding World Photo Session Participant

 

Another big thank you to Kindred Bravely who is our Platinum Sponsor for this year’s Big Latch On events. 

They have geneoursly collaborated with us to make our Spring and Summer photo shoots possible.

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post Mother Nurture: Awaken – A Breastfeeding World Photo Session appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

The topic of breastfeeding can be very controversial. It is hard not to rouse strong feelings when discussing baby feeding methods and choices. It almost seems as though the infant feeding industry benefits from the underlying tensions among us. While I try to remain level-headed and not contribute to the so-called “mommy wars”, I am passionate about a particular breastfeeding ailment; pain during breastfeeding. Specifically nipple pain in the first days and weeks. So, I’m going to risk discussing a controversial topic, to clarify some facts about nipple pain.

Why should it hurt to nurse your baby?

There are those who believe that pregnant women should be told that breastfeeding will hurt in order to be prepared and not feel that it is abnormal for nursing to cause them pain. In other words, they should be taught to expect pain. In my opinion, this is a dangerous point of view and, as a woman, I am offended. Why should women expect or accept pain to accompany a normal bodily function? Name one other natural bodily function that is repeated over and over again that is expected to be painful. Ok- childbirth, but we can even argue about that needing to hurt and it doesn’t happen repetitively for months on end.

I’m going to turn the tables here and get real- and a bit graphic. Imagine explaining to a man that there was going to be something that he had to do, about 8-12 times per day, for weeks on end, that was going to cause his penis to hurt- maybe even blister, crack and bleed! And then try to justify it to him as “best” and let him know to expect it! Never happen, right?

Of course infant feeding shouldn’t hurt. Women were designed to give birth and to breastfeed. Infants are born to nurse.
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Of course infant feeding shouldn’t hurt. Women were designed to give birth and to breastfeed. Infants are born to nurse. It is our biologic imperative as mammals. In nature, if mammals do not feed at the breast, the offspring does not survive. This system wouldn’t work if pain was the norm.

But it does hurt, right?

Yes, nursing can be painful- and I believe moms should be told of the possibility. However,  that is different than expecting it to hurt. When breastfeeding hurts, it is an indicator that something isn’t quite right. There are steps to take to make it more comfortable for you and easier for your infant . An important fact to remember is that comfort while feeding is not just for you. If latch hurts, chances are that your baby isn’t nursing effectively and will not get as much milk as he or she should.

 Sharing my experience

As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), I have met so many women who gave up nursing because of nipple pain, infections, blisters, or blebs. I have also met others who have nursed through these conditions, without reaching out for help, thinking that it was “normal” or some kind of right of passage. In my experience, I can confidently say, that in most cases, something can be done to help moms nurse without pain.

I am so committed to helping moms reach their feeding goals and to prevent them from suffering unnecessarily, that I authored a book to share the message. It Shouldn’t Hurt to Nurse Your Baby: Breastfeeding Solutions for the 6 most common causes of painful nipples. In the book, I discuss what can cause nipple pain, how to correct the cause, when to reach out for professional help, and which type professional help would be best, depending on the condition.

My mission

I have found that it is often simple adjustments that make a huge difference in what nursing feels like.  Reaching out to an IBCLC for expert support is recommended if the simple solutions aren’t making things easier. For many women, breastfeeding is a rewarding and empowering experience. I am on a mission to open more women up to that possibility. I want everyone to know that it is possible to nurse comfortably and enjoy this special time. 

Lisa Paladino CNM, IBCLC

http://www.statenislandbreastfeeding.com/

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post It Shouldn’t Hurt To Nurse Your Baby- So Why Does It? By: Lisa Paladino, IBCLC appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Last July, news broke that Searyl Atli Doty, an eight-month-old baby received a health card that did not specify the infant’s sex. The first baby ever. In place of the “M” or “F,” what appeared instead was a “U,” which stands for either unspecified or unknown, according to this article on CNN.

This was in accordance with the child’s parent’s wishes.

Kori Doty, Searly’s parent who identifies as non-binary trans, said in a statement,

It is up to Searyl to decide how they identify, when they are old enough to develop their own gender identity. I am not going to foreclose their choices based on an arbitrary assignment of gender at birth based on an inspection of their genitals.”

Doty revealed in an interview with CBC that this decision stemmed from a personal experience while growing up. She said that the gender assignment made on her behalf, which she said was inaccurate, followed her throughout her life.

While Searyl might be the first baby issued a non-gender-specific health card, the infant is far from being the first whose sex was kept hidden by parents.

One example is Storm, who made headlines in 2011 when discovered that the 4 month old’s parents decided to raise it  genderless.

Newspaper The Star reported that no one outside of the immediate family, other than a close family friend and the two midwives who helped deliver the baby, knew what genitalia Storm was born with. David Stocker and Kathy Witterick, Storm’s parents, said that this was their way of giving their child the freedom to choose who he/she wants to be. They would not constrain Storm to what society imposes on them by virtue of the genitalia they were born with.

What we noticed is that parents make so many choices for their children. It’s obnoxious,” said Stocker.

Huffington Post followed up with the family in 2016, five years since the original story broke out. Stocker revealed that Storm has since picked a gender identity, female. He added that no one other than their immediate circle is still privy to the child’s assignment at birth. He also disclosed that Jazz, Storm’s older brother, also identifies as female.

Another relatively recent example is Sasha, who was also raised as gender-neutral by Beck Laxton and Kieran Cooper.

They encouraged Sasha to play with all sorts of toys. Sasha also wore hand-me-downs from her older step-siblings, a girl and a boy.

Sasha’s parents chose to raise her in a gender-neutral manner and keeping Sasha’s sex a secret. They did this for the same as the previously mentioned families. Each family wants their child to have the freedom to determine one’s identity.

Unfortunately, all three families caught a lot of backlash from the public.

Each family was called “selfish” for imposing their political beliefs to their child. Others criticized them for supposedly using their child as the subject of their social experiment.

However, Time Magazine took take on the subject. They noted that there is a clear difference between sex, which refers to the reproductive organs, and gender, which ties to a person’s identity. Time also pointed out that the critical take that the child may become confused is a projection of someone’s own biases and prejudice.

Certainly, the idea of gender-neutral parenting is not widely recognized. Nonetheless, the idea is slowly picking up speed as parents are putting the choice in the hands of their children.

New Companies are emerging, which manufacture products to supporting gender neutral upbringings.

For instance, UK retailer Tootsa produces gender-neutral clothing as a way of promoting their message of letting children be children. Now children can be kids, instead of forcing children into boxes dictated by society. Other parents allow their children to pick what clothes to wear, or toys to play with. So instead of sex choosing for the child, they can develop their own identities.

Experts have yet to agree on whether the concept of gender neutrality would be healthy for children.

Parents cited conflicting responses, with some saying there is a need for children to identify as male or female or run the risk of confusion of his/her own identity, while there are those who praise this move, saying that this will allow the child to develop on his/her own, without any societal restrictions.

Ultimately, whether an offspring is allowed to choose his/her identity, will, somewhat ironically, be up to the decision of the parents.

What do you think? We would love to start a respectful discussion about babies and gender. Is it a choice? Whose choice is it?

ThePinkCrib_RJ is a full-time mommy and a part-time blogger. When she’s not chasing after her kids, she writes down her thoughts on her lifestyle and parenting blog.

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post Why Do Some Parents Hide Their Baby’s Gender? Guest Post appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Encouraging your children to read is very important for their development and education, especially these days when many people are more likely to watch a movie. Reading has numerous benefits for the brain. Envisioning plots and characters allows children to be creative and imaginative. It’s also a great way to expand vocabulary.

You don’t have to wait until your children learn to read before you start instilling the love of reading.

Some research studies have shown that reading to young children is highly beneficial for their language development and reading readiness. Creating a cozy reading nook is a step towards achieving this goal.

The importance of reading to your newborn

There’s nothing more pleasant than cuddling up with your baby and reading to them. Apart from boosting brain activity, reading is also a great way of bonding with your baby. Babies love the sound of a mother’s voice. It’s also a great way to establish a feeling of intimacy and strengthen the emotional connection. Babies can learn some basic emotional reactions from their parents, which helps with empathy development. Through reading, you’ll be able to use various tones and prosodic features for different characters and convey all kinds of emotions.

A research study using MRIs has found that kids that are being read to on a regular basis have more developed brain areas responsible for semantic processing. In other words, they can grasp the meaning of a word more easily and their oral skills are on a significantly higher level. There are also special books for newborns that will introduce them to colors and shapes. Show your child that reading is entertaining, not just a task for school.

How to choose the right place for a nook?

First of all, no matter how small your apartment is, you can always find a tiny spot to put a comfortable armchair and a bookshelf. The unused space under the stairs can be transformed in a wonderful reading nook, that both your kids and you will love.

A nook could also be a perfect, quiet place for breastfeeding, so try to create a snug little corner that you’ll enjoy, too. A bean bag or big, soft cushions can be a great idea for children’s room, while a colorful carpet would be a nice addition as well.

Make sure that this spot is in a way isolated from all distractions, including the TV or a computer. Lighting is important, too. It would be best to choose a room with a window that will provide natural light. If that’s not possible, you can always resort to some creative reading lamps. While your kids are still toddlers, it’s important to organize a nook in a manner that will allow you to curl up next to them with a good book.

How to decorate it?

Naturally, when decorating this space, you could also include your kids in the whole process. Color schemes should be bright and warm. Since this will be their reading corner as well, you could decorate it with their own artwork. Bookshelves should be kid-friendly. All the books should be accessible and within their reach. While your children still can’t read, it’s important to display the books so that their covers are visible. That way they will be able to recognize the book they want and easily find it.

Tents make excellent reading nooks because they’re cozy and quiet, allowing kids to read without any disturbances from the outside world. They also inspire imagination. Kids love to pretend that they’re in a castle, fortress or some magical place. Tents will easily turn into their favorite secret spots. As kids also love to play in their nooks, a creative kids’ toy basket could help you keep their toys organized, and it can be used for laundry, as well.

As you can see, a reading nook doesn’t necessarily have to be big or fancy. The point is in creating a nice place where you and your kids can read and spend some quality time together.

Where do you enjoy reading with your children?

Emma Lawson

Emma is a former teacher, constantly improving her skills both as a teacher and as a parent. She is passionate about writing and learning new things that can help you to lead a quality life. You can follow her on Twitter @EmmahLawson

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post How to Create a Lovely Reading Nook for Your Child -by Emma Lawson appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

So this month our Breastfeeding World Team is celebrating the Active Father, half of our parenting team

“So Lauren,” my brother in law asked, “what went through your mind, when Todd told you that he wanted to take the kids on vacation by himself?” I think I must have looked crazy, trying to process what he was asking me.

Uhhhh… That it was like my own vacation, even though I was working?” I answered blithely. Then I stepped up on my soapbox. “Why is it that because he’s a dad, traveling with his kids alone, people are shocked? But if it was me, no one would blink an eye?”

“No I mean… that’s a lot for a parent, traveling with two kids, alone.” Being a young, active father himself, He meant for any parent, it’s hard. But it got me thinking.

Why is it that an active father is labeled an “amazing dad”, but an active mother is just a mom?

Then I thought about my husband, an active father in every single way. He changes diapers, gives baths, folds laundry, takes the kids on outings by himself. He does this every day, without blinking. And then I thought about the parents in my daycare. The majority of them share the load, evenly. Dad picks up, just as often as mom. Kids are just as happy to see him, rely on him for their daily care, every bit as their mothers. These fathers, today’s fathers, do not take on the role that our fathers did, that our grandfathers did.

Many of today’s families are working families, both the parents, out of the home.

Equal partners in supporting their families. Equal partners at home. You can knock the “millennial” generation all you want- but someone is doing something right, because our children are being raised by mom AND dad.

Society may still see an active father as a “Super Dad”, but the truth is, he’s a partner with his spouse, a partner in his home. The paradigm for fatherhood is changing, just as dramatically as the model for motherhood. And I don’t think these active fathers are getting enough credit.

Maybe, just maybe, as much as moms are feeling pressure to do-and-be-it-all, dad’s are feeling the same?

My husband adores Isabella. Every day at some point, he takes her out to the backyard and they work on “their garden” together. She is constantly talking about the strawberries or tomatoes she is growing. He’s also great about me going out, I go out at least twice a month, between book club and friends and he may mess with me by grumbling but he always makes sure to get rid of his overtime so I can have that alone time. My favorite is when baseball comes on, Isabella knows to get into his lap and he explains the game to her and that keeps her busy for a good half hour.

He’s a great father.

Our daughter has special needs. 13 years old and we still have to change poop diapers and she already started her period . She has also developed quite a chest. Through it all, my husband does his fair share of taking care of all of her needs . He is so patient and kind. We both have our moments still to this day regarding her syndrome. We are able to be strong for each other. To our son, he is also such an amazing role model . He works hard, but never complains when there’s almost always a load of laundry waiting for him to put it the dryer. 

My kids adore him and it’s not hard to see why.

My husband usually works 80 hour weeks, with a max of 4 days off a month. Not including studying and working on presentations at home. He STILL makes time (the nights he’s home) to do bath and bedtime stories, picks up toys, prepares some meals, takes out the garbage, and changes lots of diapers. He loves taking Zeke out to the park by himself.

In those first few months when Zeke was a newborn, we were barely holding it together with no family in the area. But, we took turns holding Zeke at night, giving him a bottle, and he changed way more diapers than I did. He took a newborn to Target by himself, so I could stay home and sleep. After 24+ hour shifts, he would come home and take the baby from me so I could sleep. I have no doubt, that I would have given up on breastfeeding without his support during the first 2.5 months (successfully breasted for 16 months). He made so many meals in those early weeks, washed dishes, etc, etc. I once told my husband that other husbands don’t always do these things, and he said he knew, that his dad never changed one diaper, and my husband is the oldest of five. He followed it up by saying, “I’m not a pu**y”.

This Parenting Thing Is No Walk In The Park

We all need all the help we can get! As society changes, and families need to become two income households in order to survive, we see a shift in the roles of parenting. We see a shift in the roles of parenting because how we are raising our children is changing. Honestly, an amazing shift. A shift that supports an incredible bond between fathers and their children, that we have not seen in generations past. Both partners are understanding the importance of their role in supporting one another, supporting their families both financially and emotionally. 

The Village Starts At Home

Behind the doors of our home, we need to feel loved, heard and supported. As Dads feel the pressure to do it all, us moms want you to know: we couldn’t do it with out you. We see you doing everything you can when you are tired from work. You play with the children in the most beautiful way when you think no one is watching, but we see you. When we walk into the room and its clean and the dishes are done, we see it. We see it, just like you see it when we do those things. Moms know what you are going through, we understand the pressure of this world, the pressure of parenting and holding it all together. On Father’s Day, we are thankful for you, the active father, the things you do, who you are, and who you are helping our children to become. Because our village starts at home, our village starts with you.

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post Dear Active Fathers appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

The Doctors induced me at 36 weeks because of my daughter’s diagonosis with severe intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). She was born 40 hours later via emergency c-section at 3.5 lbs. Perfectly healthy, just small. Due to her size, she spent 14 days in the NICU. So the situation left me stuck exclusively pumping, scared to even try breastfeeding. Once released from the hospital, I slowly introduced the breast, hoping that my daughter would latch easily. With only a couple of exhausting tries, my little one finally latched and gulped! Our journey began and is still going strong 6 months later!

My biggest challenge with breastfeeding has been managing it while I work

As an Active Duty Officer in the Army, I have to force myself to make time to pump. The operation tempo at my current duty station leaves little wiggle room for me to sit down and pump without interruptions. I felt so apprehensive when I went back to work, but even more so, when I went to the field for a week. I was extremely anxious before I left, trying to figure out how I would manage the work load, making time to pump, and storing my milk in a safe and sterile manner.

Initially, when I brought it up to my supervisor, he blew off the topic. Basically, he told me that I needed to figure it out.

However, I knew the regulation and that they had to accommodate breastfeeding moms so I didn’t allow this to be the final answer

After continuing to pressure my supervisor, he told me that I should have a stash for my little one (I already did) for the week I worked. Although my supervisor is a medical provider and most likely knew, I made it clear that I still needed to pump and store the milk. After more of this back and forth conversing, I decided I would take matters into my own hands.

In the end, I coordinated with my husband to pick up milk once a day. Luckily, he is military as well and worked just down the road from my field site. I stored milk in a cooler (trust the Yeti) with ice packs (lucky for me, it was also freezing outside). And I pumped in my HMMWV every 4-5 hours. I made it work because it was a priority to me, even if it wasn’t to anyone else.

Working full-time in the Army makes it difficult to breastfeed, especially when you have a supervisor who is not fully on board

From the beginning of my pregnancy, I had issues with my supervisors recognizing that I was actually pregnant. I went to the field until I was 7 months pregnant. I wasn’t allowed to leave after the maximum “8 hour” working day. Event though it’s outlined in Army regulation. When I did try to adhere to the “8 hour” days, they called me back for pointless meetings or formations.

Bottom line up front (BLUF): if you don’t have a supervisor who is willing to advocate for you, take matters into your own hands!

I am still writing my breastfeeding story because I put my foot down

It’s not easy, but my daughter is definitely worth it! Although work will always keep me busy, it is important to me that my daughter receives the best. If I can give it to her myself, then I will continue to do so!

Lindsay Martin

Lindsay Martin joined the Army in 2015 and currently works as a Medical Service Officer on Fort Bragg, NC. She lives in Broadway, NC with her husband Keith and daughter Tatum.

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post Army Moms Who Make Breastfeeding Work- Lindsay Martin Guest Post appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

I ate lots of different veggies and fruit and enjoyed home cooked meals almost every day.  However, those meals oftentimes included fried meat, gravy, butter, flour, lots of salt etc. The relationship of food was to fulfill a hunger “need” and comfort.  The relationship to feed your body well so that on a cellular level your body could operate as needed was not included…

Fast forward a few years and I decide to give up pork at the age of 14.  Literally, I told my mother I no longer would no longer eat pork, and asked her not to buy it.  I did “well” for what I thought I should be eating. I may have missed the mark just a tad!

As I grew and learned more about our bodies and healing, I turned to a more natural approach to nutrition and healing.

I was never much of a pill taker. So when I discovered the alternative uses of essential oils and teas, the transition was a no-brainer.  Anyhow, let’s skip to the good part- when I “label” myself as a vegan! Haha!

Summer/Fall of 2015 meat started to make me feel nauseous.  The sight and smell just turned my stomach.  At this point I was only eating fish mostly with the occasional chicken.  I gave those things up, so at that point you could consider me vegetarian.  I hung on to cheese as it had ALWAYS been a favorite thing of mine to eat.  Shredded, cubed, sliced, whipped, creamed, it did not matter the form, I LOVED IT! Sadly, that needed to change…

I do believe in manifesting good thoughts and leaning towards new challenges.

So when February 10, 2016 came (aka Lent), I decided to “go vegan” for 40 days.

What. Was. I. Thinking.

This journey wasn’t just me- I drug along my entire family…all six of us!  At first, I struggled, but the more I ventured out and found new things, the better. Soon I started to feel better, sleep better, and have more energy.  Maybe I was on to something?

So when the 40 days of lent ended, I never looked back.

Choosing a vegan lifestyle became one of the best decisions I could have made for myself and family.  When you are mindful of what you’re putting into your body, and the effects it has on your mind- the result is powerful.  YOU have the control!!  Knowing that I could turn off predisposed markers according to family history due to diet and continuing to use natural remedies was eye opening and continually proving to be beneficial.

It has now been one year and one month since I became a vegan, and I love every minute.

Now I am eating things that I never had before! I’m expanding my palate, and introducing new things to the family all the time!  Being vegan is not just our “diet” it encompasses the products we use at home.  I make our own lotion, hand soap, deodorant, mouth wash and hair oil. All of these things are derived from plants and essentially keep us away from toxins.  You do not have to make your own but it is super easy and something I enjoy.  There are some good brands you can buy on the market that are vegan and cruelty free.

My husband has been a huge supporter and advocate as he has seen the many benefits for himself as well and in our children.  This is a lifestyle that can be easily adopted by anyone.

About the Author, Aimbriel Lasley

Aimbriel is an Indiana native, wife and mother of four. On top of being a wife and mother and all of the responsibilities that come along with those roles she owns and operates Purely Maternal, LLC. Her passion of breastfeeding and maternal care is an essential part of her life. Being able to educate mothers and families on their options, assisting them with birth planning, breastfeeding education and nutrition is a journey she never thought she would take but she is surely glad she did. She enjoys learning and making new recipes, spending time with her family, learning and loving!

I am always willing to share with those who inquire, so follow me on Instagram!

My handle is: black_mamavegan

Peace,

Aimbriel

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A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post This is Why I Chose a Vegan Lifestyle for our Family appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

But, nothing will top the moment of hearing the words, “Excuse me Miss, you seem to be leaking”

There I am, waiting in line to get a coffee, on a particular day when I didn’t actually have my child with me, being told that my boobs were leaking. By a complete stranger. And when I say leaking, I don’t mean a little damp spot on my top. I mean, I had two very distinct growing circles of wet right in the middle of my grey sweater.

Leaking boob juice and I have become rather good friends, it seems. In fact, I am one of those incredibly lucky women who happen to have a very overactive let down –

seriously, I could spray someone from across the room

– and more often than not I wake up to wet sheets from having leaked at some point during the night. Even with the many breastmilk mishaps that I’ve had, I have to say that I have never quite accomplished the feat of soaking through breast pads, a nursing bra, a tank top, and a sweater without even having the slightest inclination that it was happening until that moment.

The idea that motherhood has desensitized me from the feeling of being damp so much so that I could not notice the giant patches of boob juice leaking through the front of my shirt, scares the living daylights out of me.

I mean come on, my shirt was soaked. How in the world did I not notice?

And my goodness could I have been more embarrassed?

I had no idea how to respond or to react to this perfectly polite stranger informing me of my tremendously unfortunate situation in the middle of a very busy coffee shop. I did the only thing that I could think of – grab my coffee, smile, shrug my shoulders, and say

I’m a mom. You’d be surprised at how often stuff like this happens.

No one has ever said that Motherhood is dignified but they have also never said it was dull. It is a journey that will keep you on your toes. As soon as you think you might have a handle on it – everything changes. When poop hits the fan, or when motherhood starts to eat you alive, it is important that you do your best to keep a sense of humour.

Parenthood is much easier to navigate that way

Kassi is a new mother, a crafter, a roller derby player and blogger. Together with her bearded partner and their pup, they are navigating parenthood one poopsplosion at a time. Read all about their hilarious parenting adventures and mishaps and her journey as a newbie blogger at www.milesandellie.com

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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admin

A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post Excuse Me Miss – You Seem to Be Leaking appeared first on Breastfeeding World.