Breastfeeding
NEW MOM ETIQUETTE
By Beth Wilson
Pregnancy and birth are half the challenge (and joy) of becoming a new
mother. The other half is learning how to deal with unsolicited advice
(even if well intended), relentless offers and disapproving glances
from friends, family and strangers. Etiquette expert Peggy Post, great
granddaughter-in-law of Emily Post and a regular contributor to
Good Housekeeping magazine, provides tips for those common sticky social situations that new mothers are likely to experience.
Everyone has an opinion Unfortunately
the likelihood of strangers and family offering advice to new mothers
is high. Those who think they know better may ask, "Shouldn't she have
on a sweater? It's cold outside." A polite rebuttal: "We're just fine,
thank you" or "Thank you, but she's always warm." Post warns, "Don't
get into a big discussion."
To hold and handle To
avoid the hands-on approach, control the number of visitors and then
let them know your comfort level. Post advises a direct, but kind
response, "We don't want everyone handling him" or "We're just not
having kids hold him yet."
When and where to breast-feed "This
is not a black or white issue," claims Post. It depends on the place,
the people around you and their feelings, what you're wearing, and your
own comfort level. "The key word here is discrepancy," says Post, who
once saw a woman sit on the floor in the middle of a long airport line
to breast-feed. According to Post, the woman should have moved to a
chair away from the crowd. Likewise, at a mall, Post suggests moving to
someplace out of sight. "Be considerate of other people."
In public with your child There's
a difference between taking an infant to a family restaurant (one with
other small children) and an intimate restaurant. In a family
restaurant, if your child starts screaming you've got more time to calm
him or her down. In a quiet place, such as a nice restaurant, library,
or church, Post suggests leaving. "It's best not to drive others
crazy." How much time do you have to quiet your child? "You can tell
from how many glares you get," says Post.
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About The Author
Beth Wilson is a regular contributor to Your Baby Today.
