Dear Time, Stimulation for the human mind is vital as you so eloquently described in your article "Fertile Minds" February 3, but also vital is the the fuel the mind requires to have optimal development and function, mother's milk. Babies that are artificially fed have lower IQ, and perform worse on all cognitive tests. None of the commercial artifical milks made from processed cow's milk, soy beans and other additives come close in providing infants with optimal health or brain development. Scientists still are unable to change the essential proteins of cow's milk or soy beans to even come close to the high quality, brain building human proteins in mother's own breastmilk. Ingredients are being added yearly to artificial baby milks as they are discovered and found to be important in mother's milk. Most parents want to give their child 'the best' and don't want to be manipulated by marketers of the huge artificial baby milk industry into choosing an inferior food for their child. But they are. Psychological advertising touting these as "gentle" and "complete" leave out the information that the baby will have double the medical bills, and 8 to 10 points lower IQ if parents choose this product over low cost hight quality mother's milk. Human milk banks are also available and could be used much more as they are in Sweden for those unable to provide their own milk for their babies. These facts are important for child care and welfare reform. Child care givers need to support and encourage mothers to continue to provide their milk for the baby when they are away, and welfare needs to recognize and support mothers in their efforts to breastfeed. Currently there are many barriers in Americal society that make it difficult for mothers to continue breastfeeding beyond a few weeks, that could be removed with public awareness and support. (Employers willingly providing breaks for mothers to nurse or expess their milk for the baby, private rooms to use, etc.) Parents need truthful information. Unfortunately your article omitted even mentioning this most important subject and left the impression that stimulation ALONE is the ticket to a good mind. Jane Bradshaw RN, BSN, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Lynchburg, VA