Guide to On–Line Breastfeeding Resources
Guide to On–Line Breastfeeding Resources
Currently, the Head Start Program Performance Standards require breastfeeding education for expectant families and accommodations for breastfeeding children. Why? Breastfeeding provides a true head start for the children Head Start programs serve. The research shows that breastfeeding has important long term impacts on the health and development of children and the health and well–being of mothers. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies breastfeed for at least six months.
Refer to:
Head Start Program Performance Standards Related to Breastfeeding
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Policy Statement on Breastfeeding
American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) Breastfeeding Position Paper and Policy Statement
But low–income families, like those served in Head Start programs, are among the least likely to begin breastfeeding their children. They are also more likely to stop breastfeeding
before the six months recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Refer to:
You can make a difference, and this guide can help! The current Head Start Program Performance Standard around breastfeeding education is specifically for those programs who enroll pregnant women, infants and toddlers. However, all Head Start programs have opportunities to share information and support around breastfeeding with families. Through the strong relationships you build with families, you can:
talk with families about breastfeeding,
offer accurate information to help families make informed choices,
provide a program environment that welcomes breastfeeding, and
support families in the feeding decisions that make the most sense for them.
There are many resources available to help you promote and support breastfeeding. This guide can help you find them. Click on the images below for resources specific to your needs. Remember that families who are making the decision to breastfeed or are breastfeeding their babies need very individual information and support. Before visiting with them:
talk with your community partners to identify local breastfeeding resources and services,
look through the resources below, and
provide a program environment that welcomes breastfeeding, and
develop a resource book that you can use to provide in breastfeeding education and support to families around the immediate concerns that they identify. (Please note: The listed websites provide handouts and materials you can use in your programs or with families at the moment they have concerns. Materials published by government organizations are in the public domain and can be copied and given to families. Please check the copyrights on other materials.)
Remember that, while written information can be useful, it is most effective to discuss information with families. Ask them what they find useful about these resources, and where they disagree or have questions. Use these resources as conversation–starters with families.
Some parents have not seen or experienced breastfeeding in their communities. Breastfeeding rates in the United States are lowest among African–American and Native American women. It is important that the breastfeeding materials that you use reflect the families in your program whenever possible. As you go through this guide, you will notice that there are a number of publications that are designed and targeted for families of particular groups. A few are included below.
Refer to:
For African–American Families:
For American Indian and Alaska Native Families:
For Chinese Families:
For Hispanic Families:
Please click on the topic areas below for information and links to specific resources on each topic:
Breastfeeding for a Head Start
The Important Role of Staff in Breastfeeding Education and Support
Creating a Breastfeeding Welcoming Program
Promoting Breastfeeding and Addressing Challenges
Supporting Families After the Birth
