What UNICEF Baby Friendly Standards Mean to Me

When I reflect on my journey as a mother and a health professional, the UNICEF Baby Friendly Standards hold a special place in my heart. These standards, aimed at promoting and supporting breastfeeding, resonate deeply with my personal experiences and the transformations I've witnessed within my own family.

Years ago, when I was a newly qualified midwife, I remember meeting a wonderfully knowledgeable infant feeding lead. One day, she mentioned, almost offhandedly, that she had breastfed one of her children until they were four years old. I recall being taken aback, as I had never seen anyone breastfeed a child beyond the infant stage, let alone to four! At the time, I didn’t have the full understanding or appreciation for long-term breastfeeding, and my initial reaction was to think it was a bit excessive.

Fast forward to today, I find myself in a completely different position. As the proud mother of nearly four-year-old, I have chosen to continue our breastfeeding journey. This experience has not only deepened my understanding of infant nutrition but has also highlighted the profound connection and comfort that breastfeeding provides at this age.

Her growth and development have truly illustrated for me the positive impact of extended breastfeeding. I've seen her confidence flourish, her emotional needs met, and her ability to navigate new experiences with ease. Our breastfeeding relationship has become a source of nourishment that extends beyond just physical sustenance; it has fostered a bond that promotes her emotional well-being and security.

The UNICEF Baby Friendly Standards champion the idea that breastfeeding should be supported and normalized within our communities. They emphasize the importance of informed and nurturing care, which I wholeheartedly believe is vital for mothers and babies alike. As a health professional now, I feel a great responsibility to advocate for these standards and empower other mothers to embrace their breastfeeding journeys, regardless of the age of their child.

Through my own experience, I've come to understand that breastfeeding can be a long-lasting and rewarding relationship. It is a beautiful way to provide comfort, support development, and encourage deep emotional connections as children grow.

Today, as I continue to breastfeed, I proudly stand by the values laid out by the UNICEF Baby Friendly Standards. They remind me of the importance of knowledge, support, and community in nurturing breastfeeding relationships. It's a journey that I once had limited understanding of, but now celebrate wholeheartedly.

To every mother reading this: whether you’re breastfeeding a newborn, toddler, or even a preschooler, know that your journey is valid and significant. Let’s continue to uplift each other and advocate for a world that supports breastfeeding at every stage.