7. Relax Poolside or Oceanside
If you aren’t interested in nursing the water, you can at least nurse near it. Relaxation is the key to a successful nursing session, and lounging poolside in the shade while nursing can be idyllic. We invested in a beach umbrella for days at the shore, and I could nurse baby in the shade while listening the ocean. It was so peaceful that my LO took great naps under that umbrella!
8. Plan Ahead for Comfort
I found that summer nursing was not the time for poor planning or procrastination. When preparing for a day at the beach, I often offered the breast to baby before we headed out, even if she wasn’t due for another meal yet. I scoped out air conditioned coffee shops or restaurants in our vacation town, so I knew the places I could duck into to cool off and nurse if she got hungry. I called ahead to amusement parts and zoos to find out if they had a place for nursing moms, and many did provide air conditioned rooms.
9. Pack Snacks for All
Consuming an adequate number of calories is critical to maintain your milk supply and also, if you’re like me, your happy demeanor. Hangry mommies do not a happy baby make. If you’ve introduced food your little one, fruit and veggie pouches or other snacks can be kept in the pool bag to make sure you’ve always got something on hand to stave off hunger.
10. Embrace the Public Breastfeeding Movement
Many moms, especially first time moms, find nursing with a cover or in private most comfortable. But the summer might be the time to exercise your right to breastfeed anywhere. Trust me, most people don’t even notice, and it takes no accessories or accommodations. If anyone give you grief just tell them to shove off with a smile.
So many lasting, fun memories are made in the summer, like your baby’s first swim or your toddler’s first trip to the ocean. A little preparation can help you ensure that breastfeeding goes smoothly, leaving more time for fun in the sun.
About the Author
Jennifer Landis is a 27-year-old healthy living blogger who loves yoga, running, and dancing it out with her toddler! You can find more from Jennifer at her blog, Mindfulness Mama, or by following her on Twitter: @jenniferelandis.