Fifth Standard of Ecological Breastfeeding: The Daily Nap Nursing
Of all the Standards of Ecological Breastfeeding, the Fifth Standard - the Daily Nap Nursing - is the one many moms want to skip. I think this is partially because we live in such a busy society. Modern times seem to be about efficiency and getting as much done as possible. Another reason is moms with a baby and a toddler are often unsure how to juggle lying down with their baby while the toddler is awake and loose! Then one other reason is that some moms are not used to daily naps.
The purpose of the daily nap nursing is to let baby suckle for an extended period of time during the day and also to give mom some needed rest. All those extra minutes of nursing - for nutrition and for comfort - help extend lactational amenorrhea.
If you are worried about getting the housework done or the laundry done, consider lowering your standards for this short time of motherhood you are in or you could ask your husband for his assistance. You could also have a mother’s helper fold laundry for you or help with light housework.
If you have a 3 year old who still naps in addition to your nursing baby, try coordinating their nap schedules so you do not have to worry about the older one while you lie down with the baby. Another idea is you could hire a mother’s helper in the afternoon around nap time and she can entertain the older child. One other idea is have the toddler in the same room with you and the baby. Try to establish a quiet time where he or she lies down or a quiet play time where he or she plays with a special basket of toys and books.
If you are someone who is not able to fall asleep during the day, just lying down and resting with baby while he or she nurses will help you relax and rejuvenate. Another option is to sit on the couch and let baby nurse to sleep in your arms and continue to nurse for as long as he or she wants. You can read to your other kids or listen to a podcast or do anything you would like to do while baby sleep nurses.
What has helped you follow the Fifth Standard? Leave a comment. I would love to hear your ideas!
For more information about the Fifth Standard of Ecological Breastfeeding:
CNML Podcast on the Fifth Standard of Ecological Breastfeeding
Judith’s Essay on the Fifth Standard
The Seven Standards of Ecological Breastfeeding: The Frequency Factor by Sheila Kippley
Breastfeeding and Natural Child Spacing by Sheila Kippley
Getting Started with Breastfeeding: For Catholic Mothers by Gina Peterson
A High Calling: Encouragement for Young Mothers From a Grandmother by Erma Rissler
Written by Gina M. Peterson, BS, IBCLC
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