Barbara Wilson-Clay,
Your model of child care you described this morning is wonderful.

"For most of human history most women have to work very hard just to
survive, and even
harder to insured that some of their children survived, too.  It could
easily be argued that the more "normal" pattern of mothering is access to
one's children while working."

 I can only hope we all live to see it the norm.

" That model could be incorporated into modern work places with very
humane
affects on our whole culture.  "

Right now I can picture grand parents & teen parents of every culture
employed as helpers where every one learn from each other.  Or as workers
taking turns.  Educational in services with discussion groups to smooth
out problems.

"It would result in less age segregation, more
awareness of the needs of children, and flexible work patterns that allow
for people to work outside rigid schedules and settings. "

 A great way to bring breastfeeding into the work place.

  " Everyone wins when we don't force people into
just one model or solution.  I'm for creative anarchy."

Why not submit it to Parent Magazine or some thing like that.  It's a
good idea & good writing.  If more and more people get that image into
their heads it will be very hard to take it away.  A creative idea that
helps civilization improve shouldn't be lost in the delete bin of 1600
lactnetters.  USA would be the most improved as we have lost that model
of child care to progress.

Regards,
P.Harris-Swenson, MA, IBCLC, Doula in training
WIC Nutritionist & BF Coordinator
Still behind '69 spring cleaning AND Lactnet mail!
Lowell, MA  USA

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