As a member of the Executive Council of the NH Breastfeeding Task Force, I was delighted to see the recent cover of Business NH featuring a baby. Babies not only matter to businesses, both large and small, but they are our future.The way we raise them, what we feed them, and how we support families, affects our society at many levels.
In 2013, the NH Breastfeeding Task Force (NHBFTF) awarded four businesses the new Breastfeeding Friendly Employer Award. Plymouth State University, Monadnock Community Hospital, Stonyfield Farm and Keene State College applied for and received recognition and a plaque to proudly display in their respective organizations. They were honored at our annual statewide lactation conference in June 2013.
We encourage employers to go to www.nhbreastfeedingtaskforce.org/ to review the simple criteria for an award. To learn more, visit the “Business Case for Breastfeeding” at www.mchb.hrsa.gov/pregnancyandbeyond.
Corporations and businesses, large and small, are realizing that family-centered breastfeeding policies help women return to work sooner. That’s cheaper than training new employees. Since breastfed babies have half the illnesses of formula fed babies, parents miss less work—another cost savings. Also, families who feel their employers care about them are more loyal, and that saves immeasurable dollars considering the better attitudes and productivity!
In my personal work with new mothers, I find many employers provide some of the criteria needed for the award, so it is my hope that employers will review the criteria and apply before the deadline on May 8. Basic criteria include: a written breastfeeding policy provided to employees, a room with a lockable door designated for nursing mother’s use (not a bathroom), and flexible (paid or unpaid) breaks of at least 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours in addition to lunch. Click on the Employer bubble on www.nhbreastfeedingtaskforce.org. Please contact me at miscott39@gmail.com or 603-801-9140 with any questions regarding the Employer Award.
Michelle Scott, MA, RD, IBCLC
Member
NH Breastfeeding Task Force
Mason
Current Issue - May 2024