In my other "hat" training the Keys to Caregiving from NCAST - they inform
mothers that their research in the U. of Washington at Seattle is that
babies naturally stop breastfeeding  for 3-5 seconds - that this is the
normal pause and they have not found a physical reason - not due to low
oxygen, etc.  And, that babies would resume feeding whether spoken to or
attended to or not.

Therefore they feel it is the pause that is meant to be there for mothers
and babies to interact.  In their studies, they found that mothers would
speak to the baby, or touch or caress the baby at the 3-5 second period
(not before).  They also mention that babies have a 3-5 second memory...

I am NOT saying not to use breast compressions - when there are reasons to
use it.  However, there are other things to do at this time that can be
very important if baby is gaining well - such as talking, caressing,
singing, smiling, etc.   The flyer they distribute on this topic is called
"Feeding is more than eating".  

I usually tell moms - you put your fork down when you're eating and talk to
others, or look around, or read, or ...  Why shouldn't babies?

On the introduction of solids I also try to have them think of starting
solids as part of socialization - rather than a chore that needs to be done
at XXX time for XXX to be consumed  - before you get to doing the REALLY
important stuff (like washing dishes, cleaning house etc.).

Jeanette Panchula, BSW, RN, IBCLC
Vacaville, CA
mailto:[log in to unmask]

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