Breastfeeding is quite a controversial topic in today's society. While there are many outspoken people who support breastfeeding in all of it's form, breastfeeding is also looked down upon by many people. Generally people can 'live and let live' when it comes to if a woman decides to breastfeed or not. However many groups of people feel that breastfeeding in public is a topic of concern for them- whether they breastfeed or not.
There are very a lot of debates about 'should she or shouldn't she', 'to cover, not to cover', but they all tend to revolve around one core issue- nobody seems to really know how to act if they come across a mother nursing in public! Like the debates there is clearly no single reaction to these occasions, and sometimes people fumble for the appropriate action. That need no longer be the case!
When encountering a breastfeeding mom, there are a few simple tips to keep in mind that will make the situation a lot more comfortable for everyone.
Make sure you stop staring
Staring makes everyone uncomfortable. If breastfeeding is an action that you support, remember that a mother is likely to feel more creeped out by constant staring then she is going to feel supported. If breastfeeding is an action that makes you feel uncomfortable, the best and easiest thing for you to do is to look away anyway. Eye contact on the other hand is very reassuring.
Smile
A smile can go a thousand miles to someone who is feeling a little insecure or conspicuous! Everyone can do with a little kindness from a stranger, and that includes breastfeeding mothers. If you don't feel comfortable with breastfeeding in public, frowning most likely will not deter a breastfeeding mother. Smile then, for your own benefit!
Feel Free To Support
If you want to let the breastfeeding mother know what an incredible job she is doing is, feel free to go over and let her know! Many breastfeeding mothers appreciate knowing that those around them support what they are doing. If you see a mother struggling with a cover, or trying to grab something out of her bag, feel free to offer some help- but only after asking first.
Don't Be A Negative Nelly
Not everyone is going to support breastfeeding or nursing in public. If you feel uncomfortable about it- that's o.k., you are entitled to your opinions too. If this is the case it is often better to go about your business as you are unlikely to stop a mother from breastfeeding in that location. Being rude or acting negatively to another person will impact your day as well, and it's easier and better for everyone to look away when someone is doing an action they have every legal right to.
Keeping these things in mind will make encounters with breastfeeding mothers in public pleasant.
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