Recently I saw this headline. “Should breastfeeding be shown on Sesame Street?” In other words, should children be exposed to one of the healthiest, most natural wonders of human nature? Personally and professionally, here’s what I have to say.
My two daughters grew up in an environment rich with images of pregnant mothers and breastfeeding babies. You see, I began my career as a Childbirth Educator. I taught classes out of my home. There were posters, model pelvises and visual aids everywhere! Our house was filled with the essence of reproduction. Even our family pets got into the swing of things by exemplifying procreation (dogs, guinea pigs, mice, finch… boy did we have finch!!). My daughters used to nurse their baby dolls, and even give birth to them!
Those little girls have grown into wonderful, accomplished young women, each breastfeeding their own sweet babies. They approached breastfeeding with a sense of confidence and normality. There was never a decision to breastfeed. It was just the way infants were fed!
When I saw the above mentioned headline, I took a fond walk down Sesame Street memory lane. (My favorite character was Snuffleupagus. I loved his name). Historically, breastfeeding had been portrayed in a discrete, gentle and sweet manor on Sesame Street. I actually recall seeing the 1977 episode where Big Bird learns about breastfeeding! (Here’s a link to the segment if you’re interested: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-L-Fg7lWgQ ). Apparently, breastfeeding has not visited Sesame Street at all for a very long time. Indeed, disappointing.
Years of professional experience have shown me that breastfeeding is largely affected by our psyche. Women who were raised in environments where breastfeeding was practiced openly and without cynicism are undoubtedly more relaxed and confident about the process. So, my answer to the question…? ABSOLUTELY! Let’s set our children up for future breastfeeding success!
BTW, thank you www.bringbreastfeedingback.com (Bring Breastfeeding Back to Sesame Street) for letting me borrow your drawing. Its darling!
