All Together Mama

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Infants + Babies, Motherhood, Pregnancy

Tips for Successful Breastfeeding in Public

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Author: Mari Green

Breastfeeding in public was something I never thought much about until I had my baby. At first, the idea made me nervous. Would people stare? Would it be awkward? But I knew it was important for my baby, so I pushed through the discomfort. I remember the first time I nursed in public—my little one was hungry, and we were at a the Outlet stores trying to shop for my husbands new job. There really wasn’t anywhere for me to go, so I tucked away at a table near an alley and tried to be discreet. I was using a cover, but my baby had other plans. She fussed, pulled the cover down, and before I knew it, I was completely exposed. I quickly caught the attention of several passing fellow shoppers so as fast I as could, stood up, covered myself while trying to calm my baby and cut the feeding short so we could get to the car. I. Was. Mortified.

But to my surprise, no one said a word. A couple of other moms smiled sympathetically, and a kind older woman asked if I needed anything. That moment taught me that other mamas had most likely gone through their own similar experiences—and the ones who did are often the most supportive.

After that, I gained more confidence. Took precautions to make sure that situation did not happen again and learned to feed my baby comfortably without worrying so much about what others thought. Now, I see breastfeeding in public as a normal part of life. Sure, there are moments of awkwardness, but those pass quickly. What matters most is that my baby is happy and fed.

Breastfeeding in public can be a positive experience for both mother and baby, but it can also come with its own set of challenges and considerations. I asked All Together Mama if it would be okay to share some of the tips I used to help make breastfeeding in public a successful and comfortable experience:

Prepare in Advance

  • Plan Your Outings: Know where you’ll be going and identify any nearby breastfeeding-friendly locations or areas.
  • Pack Essentials: Carry a well-stocked diaper bag with breastfeeding necessities such as a cover (if you prefer to use one), breast pads, and a nursing-friendly outfit.

Wear Comfortable and Accessible Clothing

  • Choose Nursing-Friendly Outfits: Opt for clothes that are easy to open or lift, such as nursing tops or dresses with hidden openings. These easy access tank tops were a must-have for me!
  • Layer Strategically: Use layers that can be adjusted easily for privacy or comfort.

Practice and Get Comfortable

  • Practice at Home: Get comfortable with breastfeeding in different positions and using any covers or accessories you plan to use. Make it a test run just like if you were on an outing.
  • Familiarize Yourself with Techniques: Practice how to latch your baby quickly and efficiently.

Find a Comfortable Spot

  • Seek Out Quiet Areas: Look for a comfortable and quiet spot where you can sit and relax, such as a designated nursing room, a cozy corner, or a quiet bench.
  • Use Public Amenities: Many places offer family restrooms or nursing stations equipped with comfortable seating and privacy.

Use a Nursing Cover or Scarf If Desired

  • Choose a Cover: If you prefer extra privacy, use a nursing cover, scarf, or shawl.
  • Be Discreet: Practice using the cover in a way that feels natural and comfortable for you.

Stay Confident and Calm

  • Maintain Confidence: Trust in your ability to breastfeed and stay relaxed. Your confidence will help you feel more comfortable and less self-conscious.
  • Ignore Distractions: Focus on your baby and your breastfeeding routine rather than on onlookers or potential distractions.

Know Your Rights

  • Understand the Law: Familiarize yourself with breastfeeding laws and rights in your area. Many places have legal protections for breastfeeding in public.
  • Speak Up: If you encounter any issues or inappropriate comments, know that you have the right to breastfeed your baby wherever you are allowed.

Example Phrase I have had to use in the past: “I’ve read up on local breastfeeding laws so I am aware of my rights. If I encounter any issues, I’ll handle them confidently knowing I’m within my given rights.”

Engage Supportive Friends or Family

  • Seek Support: If you’re nervous about breastfeeding in public, consider bringing a supportive friend or family member along to provide encouragement.
  • Share Experiences: Talking with other breastfeeding mothers can provide tips and boost your confidence.

Practice Good Hygiene

  • Clean Hands: Always wash your hands before and after breastfeeding.
  • Use Clean Cloths: Ensure any cloths or covers you use are clean and properly sanitized.

Prepare for Different Scenarios

  • Be Ready for Interruptions: Understand that there may be interruptions or unexpected situations. Have a plan for how to handle them calmly.
  • Adapt as Needed: Be flexible and adjust your approach based on the situation, such as finding a new spot if your initial choice is not ideal.

Breastfeeding in public is a natural and beneficial practice for both mother and baby. By preparing in advance, wearing comfortable clothing, practicing in private, and staying confident, you can make public breastfeeding a positive experience. Knowing your rights and seeking support can also help you navigate any challenges with ease. Remember, breastfeeding is a personal journey, and finding what works best for you and your baby is key to a successful experience.

Motherhood

Tips for Navigating Mom Friendships

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Author: Anna Reeves

Having moved to several different states every couple of years, I’ve had to start fresh and build new friendships time and time again. I didn’t want to entirely give up my current friendships either. Through those experiences, I’ve learned valuable lessons about navigating friendships as a mom. While it can be both rewarding and challenging, balancing the demands of motherhood with cultivating meaningful relationships takes intention and effort. Here are my best tips for successfully navigating and nurturing mom friendships:

Go where moms go

While this may seem obvious, This is actually the best places to make mom friends. This may be local or online, but look for groups where you can join or introduce yourself. Parks are no longer top choice for meeting other mamas. Try fit for mom or My Gym children’s fitness centers. Local libraries.

make the first move

It’s kinda like dating. Ew. I know but really.. the other mamas are in the same position you are but they most likely don’t want to speak up either. Some great icebreakers are to ask how old is their kid? or compliment their choice in diaper bag etc. Just start the conversation.

Nurture your already existing friendships by Prioritizing Communication

Clear and open communication helps build trust and understanding. If your friend has a child also, remember all mamas have different styles of parenting and you need to be able to communicate your style effectively not to step on their toes, but to also set your boundaries and expectations. My high school best friend and I are wildly different when it comes to our parenting styles, but I respect her choices and she respects mine. Share your feelings and needs openly, and encourage your friends to do the same.

Embrace the Chaos together

Motherhood can be chaotic, and being understanding helps maintain strong bonds. Recognize that life with kids can be unpredictable and messy. Don’t stress about having a perfectly clean house or a perfectly planned outing, embrace and accept those imperfections. Find humor in the chaos and share light-hearted moments with your friends.

Schedule Regular Meetups

Regular interactions strengthen friendships and provide support. Set dates for playdates, coffee breaks, or mom’s night out in advance. Meet in places that are kid-friendly or find activities that both you and your kids will enjoy. If in-person meetups are difficult, use video calls to stay connected. But show up when you say you will.

Share Parenting Tips and Support

Sharing experiences and advice can provide mutual support and reassurance. Share parenting tips and advice in a supportive, non-judgmental way. Don’t hesitate to seek out advice or support when needed. Share and celebrate each other’s parenting successes and milestones.

Respect Boundaries

Respecting personal boundaries fosters a healthy and respectful friendship. Recognize that everyone has different boundaries and schedules. Don’t assume your friends are available or interested in every activity. Clearly communicate your own needs and listen to theirs.

Balance Friendships with Family Time

Maintaining a balance ensures that family and friendships both receive attention. Plan time for family activities while also carving out time for friends. When possible, include family members in your friend activities to blend social and family time. Be realistic about how much time you can devote to friendships given your family commitments.

Support Each Other’s Parenting Styles

Respecting different parenting approaches fosters a supportive environment. Accept that different families have different approaches and practices. Focus on positive support rather than critiquing each other’s methods. Offer encouragement and support in areas where your friend might be struggling.

Plan Low-Key Gatherings

Low-key gatherings can be less stressful and more enjoyable. Host small quick and simple playdates or a quick coffee at home with a friend for a relaxed atmosphere. Meet at a neighborhood park for an hour or have a brunch or little picnic for a casual and enjoyable outing.

Be Supportive During Tough Times

Life happens. There are motherhood journeys that have good and bad all wrapped up in one. Offering support during difficult times strengthens friendships and provides comfort for that friend. You will have times that you probably need to lean on them as well. When needed, provide practical support like meals, childcare, or a listening ear during tough times. Regularly check in on your friends if they’re going through a challenging period. Show empathy and understanding, and offer support without needing to fix everything, sometimes its better to listen than to get involved. However if you feel your friends life is in danger, you should notify the authorities, but never get directly involved in a hostile situation.

Make Time for Self-Care

Taking care of yourself helps you be a better friend and parent. Ensure you’re taking time for yourself to recharge and maintain your well-being. Establish boundaries to prevent burnout and manage your time effectively. Support your friends in taking time for their own self-care as well.

Navigating mom friendships involves balancing communication, support, and personal boundaries while embracing the unique challenges of motherhood. By prioritizing these aspects, you can build and maintain strong, supportive relationships that enhance your parenting journey and enrich your life.

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