Breastfeeding Week Seeks to Educate and Support

Aug. 1-7 is International Breast Feeding Week.

There’s been much sturm-und-drang in the media about breastfeeding mothers—and the staffers in various places who tell them to stop, demand they leave, or call the cops.

Time Magazine has even compiled a Top 10 List of breastfeeding controversies.

But what are the facts? Breast milk provides your baby with a healthy start in life, and promotes normal healthy growth long after breastfeeding ends.

“As nature’s perfect food, breast milk helps your baby fight off illnesses, and ensures proper brain and eye development, and a healthier immune system and digestive tract. Breastfeeding can reduce your baby’s risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), respiratory illnesses, allergies, asthma, obesity, diarrhea, ear infections, and other illnesses,” said Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert, Rockland County Commissioner of Health in a press release.

If you want to take a stand, consider heading to Putnam County Aug. 1 to take part in an international push-back called The Big Latch On.

If you’re looking for information and assistance, Rockland health officials offer these special events to encourage new parents, and parents-to-be, to consider the benefits of breastfeeding your baby.

During World Breastfeeding Week, when you shop at one of the following local Farmers’ Markets, get more than just fresh, delicious and nutritious food! Get information about breastfeeding and get your questions answered by lactation (breastfeeding) experts. These events will be held weather-permitting.

• Friday, August 1st from 10 am – 1 pm at the Pearl River Farmers’ Market, located in the large parking lot at The River Church, 253 Ehrhardt Road

• Wednesday, August 6th from 10 am – 1 pm at the Memorial Park Community Parking Lot, 1 Veterans Drive, located next to the Spring Valley Farmers’ Market

• Thursday, August 7th from 10 am – 1 pm at the Nyack Farmers’ Market, located at the municipal parking lot on Main Street

The Department of Health also offers these free programs to help you get started and continue breastfeeding successfully:

Breastfeeding Promotion and Support Program: A breastfeeding expert provides free breastfeeding education and counseling (in person or over the phone) and help with breastfeeding challenges.

Mother 2 Mother Breastfeeding Support Groups: Share your breastfeeding questions and experiences with other pregnant women and new mothers at free support groups right in your community! Babies are welcome. The support group meets at:

• 26 New Main Street in Haverstraw on the following Wednesdays at 1:45 pm:

o The English-speaking group meets on August 6, September 3, and October 1.

o The Spanish-speaking group meets on August 20, September 17, and October 15.

• 14 South Main Street in Spring Valley on the following Tuesdays at 1:45 pm for the Spanish- speaking

group, and at 2:30 pm for the English-speaking group: August 19, September 16, and October 21.

Call (845) 364-3865 or email messingl@co.rockland.ny.us for more information.