Breastfeed-Ed 101

Here's some food for thought, no pun intended.  The New York State Health Department has put together a Breastfeeding Education Activity package for teachers to use in their curriculums.  It's targeted at classes K though 12.  The department has tailored it year by year.  For instance the lesson plan for kindergartners centers around a theme of "Cats Have Kittens."  it includes videos, activities, worksheets and suggested books.  As the children get older the lesson plans take a more direct approach such as examining personal attitudes towards breastfeeding as well as those of their own families.  The students also examine the pros and cons of breastfeeding in developing countries.  Some of the lesson plans recognize that there are a myriad of reasons a person chooses to breastfeed over bottlefeeding.  The lessons take into account social factors.  As the kids get older they learn about things like how to hold a baby, milk production, eating properly and how to actually breastfeed.

The whole idea of bringing breastfeeding into the curriculum for K through 12 is interesting.  I'm not sure how I feel about it to be honest with you.   Part of me says "hold on just a minute here."  But part of me is intrigued by the idea.  I'd love to know your thoughts on it.  And, voice your opinion.  Take today's poll (see below)!