I think in light of the discussion, it is important to define attachment parenting.  Dr. Sears explains it well on his website: 

http://www.askdrsears.com/html/10/T130300.asp

The basic tenents are birth bonding, breastfeeding, babywearing, sleeping close to baby, responsiveness to baby's cry, wariness of scheduling or baby-training, and balance between your needs and the needs of your family.  I, too, believe that the term "attachment" can lead to an unproductive comparison (I'm attached to my kid an you're not).  

I would argue that the responsiveness aspect of AP is vital to the breastfeeding relationship.  If the mother does not respect the language of the baby, it is unlikely that the trust relationship that is so vital to breastfeeding can flourish.  

In many cultures in which breatfeeding, co-sleeping, and babywearing is the norm, parents also beat their children.  I know this first-hand from my time living in West Africa.  I bring this up to dispell the "holier than thou" aura surrounding AP practices. 

This brings me to a second question:  As breastfeeding advocates, are we BREASTMILK advocates or are we BABY advocates as well?  Or does that depend on the situation?  

Jess  



      

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