To paraphrase Marsha Walker and Diane Wiessinger, perhaps instead of making
WIC clinics "breastfeeding friendly" we need to make them "bottle-feeding
unfriendly."  How about a big sign that says:

"Since bottle-feeding with formula is harmful to children's and mother's
health, and since seeing a mother bottle-feeding teaches children to view it
as a normal and healthy alternative to breastfeeding, which it is not, we
ask that all mothers who *must* bottle-feed their children do so behind the
screen in the corner, or in the private room down the hall, so as (1) not to
offend others in the waiting area and (2) protect young children from seeing
other children being fed in this unhealthy way."

I know, I know.  Don't flame me.  Just a thought.  Remember, I bottle-fed
one of my kids, *and* I was a WIC mom in 1981.

I just don't see why breastfeeding should be hidden or considered needful of
a "private place."

How about purchasing $5.00 gift certificates for local restaurants to be
given out to moms who are still breastfeeding, once per month??  Maybe you
could even get the restaurants to donate the gift certificates?  Or a "baby
closet" with toys, clothes, blankets, etc. that a mom could choose something
from for each visit that she comes to while she is still breastfeeding?  Or
get a local beauty salon to donate a haircut, style, or manicure as rewards
for the mom for nursing til a certain time -- like the 4 month mark.  How
about a big party (held periodically) for all moms who are still
breastfeeding at six months, at one year, at 1.5 years, at 2.0 years.  I
guess I'm a big believer in bribes and rewards.
Katherine A. Dettwyler, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Anthropology and Nutrition
Texas A&M University