Tag Archives: magazine

Breastfeeding and Formal Events

Okay, so by now you have probably seen the highly-controversial cover photo for TIME magazine current issue. If not, you can find it and a short article regarding the topic here. For many, the photo has sparked some heated conversations both online and offline whether breastfeeding toddlers (ages 3 and up) is appropriate or not. While attachment parenting and extended breastfeeding are the topics discussed in the TIME article, this really isn’t what the real controversy regarding the photo is all about.

I think the big issue for many is not only the manner in which this mother is breastfeeding (no doubt TIME used this picture because it would spark interest and controversy) and the fact that it’s being done so blatantly in public. Now, before I get myself in trouble here, please understand that I truly believe that breastfeeding is a wonderful thing for a mother and child to experience and I don’t have any problem with it being done in public whatsoever.

I’m simply stating, that for most people, the big issue with breastfeeding is whether or not it should be done in public and, if so, to what extent a mother should conceal herself and her child from others during this time. So, what does this have to do with formal events?

If you are planning a formal event, such as a wedding, bridal shower, graduation party, work social or some other formal event, keep in mind that you may have some breastfeeding mothers in attendance. As the host or hostess, it is your job to make sure that all of your guests are comfortable for the entire duration of the event.

While your breastfeeding guests may be perfectly comfortable breastfeeding in the same room as all of your other guests (covered or not) this may make …