Breastfeeding gives children a true head start! The American Academy of Pediatrics calls breastfeeding “a baby's first immunization.” But that's not all. Breastfeeding offers babies exactly what they need for a healthy, sound developmental start. In addition, it is good for mothers, and it supports relationships between mothers and newborns. There are many materials to help you learn about the reasons for breastfeeding and share them with families:

Refer to:

Resources for Staff:

• Breastfeeding, Maternal & Infant Health Outcomes Report from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)

• News You Can Use: Breastfeeding

Resources for Staff and Families:

• Breastfeeding: Why Not Give It a Try? (in English, Spanish, and Chinese)

• Breastfeeding – Best For Baby. Best For Mom

• Breastfeeding

• Lo Que Dicen las Mamás Sobre Dar Pecho (in Spanish. English Translation: What Mothers Say about Breastfeeding)

• Beneficios de Amamantar (in Spanish. English Translation: Benefits of Breastfeeding)

Breastfeeding is recommended for almost every baby, but there are some rare cases when families should not breastfeed. Click here for information on when breastfeeding is not recommended.

Refer to:

• When Should a Mother Avoid Breastfeeding?

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Guide to On–Line Breastfeeding Resources

 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

 Involving the Whole Family

 Planning for Birth

 Supporting Families After the Birth

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