The Northwoods Breastfeeding Coalition announces that six child care centers in the area are now registered as Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care Centers, including Tomahawk Child Care Center in Lincoln County. This registration is provided through the WI Department of Health Services – Chronic Disease Prevention Unit, and the WI Breastfeeding Coalition. The centers will be listed with the Northwest Connection-Family Resources Child Care Resource & Referral as Registered Breastfeeding Friendly (www.wisconsinchild.org), and on the Northwoods Breastfeeding Coalition’s website: http://oneidacountypublichealth.org/?p=628
This registration means the provider has adopted the required breastfeeding policy that is supportive for consumers and employees alike, and assures that all staff are aware of and following the policy.
The centers’ staffs have received breastfeeding education in order to provide accurate information and consistent breastfeeding promotion, support and resources for families. They received continuing education credit through The Registry: Wisconsin’s Recognition System for the Childhood Care and Education Profession. Staff members are more confident in supporting breastfeeding moms and infants, knowing how breastfeeding works, and how to handle breastmilk. The centers now provide a breastfeeding friendly environment, including a private and comfortable area for breastfeeding mothers to nurse or pump. Children participate in learning experiences related to breastfeeding. Each center is establishing connections with their local breastfeeding coalition, so they are able to refer to the appropriate breastfeeding resources when necessary.
The Northwoods Breastfeeding Coalition was pleased to work with providers who already supported breastfeeding. By completing the 10 Steps to Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care Centers Program, the centers now have the tools necessary to accomplish what they already supported.