I'm very saddened to read that some people have interpreted the criticism of
the Ezzo's "Growing Families International"/"Babywise" curriculum as being
criticism of Christianity.  I don't *think* (not positive) that the Ezzo's
are associated with any particular Christian denomination.  I know their
curriculum has been purchased for use in adult ed classes at a variety of
churches in various places (locally it was the First Baptist Church).  Often
times, the pastors, and people outside the classes, have no idea what
curriculum is being used.  When our local Baptist pastor was told what was
happening at his church, he expressed surprise and dismay (presumably
sincere) and claimed he was unaware of what the Ezzo's had to say about
breastfeeding.  His own wife nursed their child on demand, and understood
that scheduled feeding can interfere with milk supply and growth in the
baby.  So it doesn't seem to be any one denomination, or "type" of Christian
church (fundamentalist, or whatever) that finds out about and uses this
curriculum.  The church in Canada where it is being used (discussed recently
on LactNet) was some sort of independent church, as I recall (meaning not
one of the standard denominations).  I think we can all realize that this
philosophy of childrearing/breastfeeding is (1) not based in the teachings
of Christ and (2) not common to all Christians.

On a related (sort of) topic, are any of you LactNetters familiar with "How
to Really Love Your Kids"?  It's a wonderful book I read at least once a
year, part of our local LLL library, from a Christian perspective.  If I had
tons of money I would send a copy to everyone who promotes the Ezzo's method
of child rearing.  Aside from the breastfeeding to mother's schedule, they
also recommend starting physical discipline with a spoon (applied to baby's
rear) at 4 months of age, working up to hitting with a belt for older
children, when they misbehave.  Gives me the willies just to think about how
these kids will turn out as adults.

Kathy D.