I have so many thoughts, so much to say!
Do I love the pose? Not really. Do I think it's extreme? Absolutely! Time magazine knew what they were doing. They knew what would sell, right?
The disheartening aspect of it all is the fact that Time won! They caused a big, fat hairy controversy and all the momma claws came out, hateful words are being spewed all around, and judgement continues to pour down.
I'm beyond saddened by a lost opportunity. It could have been so much more, in fact it could have created a motion of change. What if the image could have captured the affection, connected eyes, warmth, and the touch of love that is always evident while nursing a child?!
What if the embrace displayed the bond and secure attachment?!
What if the pure sweetness of an intimate moment was shown for it's true beauty?
Extended breastfeeding is beautiful and should be shown in such a way, but Time wanted to create the WOW factor!
I understand why people weren't fond of the image, but it is not a probable cause to attack all mothers who choose to practice extended breastfeeding. World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for two years or beyond, yet I keep hearing absurd comments such as,
A child should not still be breastfeeding if.....
he has teeth- my 7 month old has two teeth, I guess I should cut the cord, as so many keep stating
he can ask for it- my first born started signing "milk" at 7 months, so technically he was asking for it
he can walk- both my boys started walking at 9 months
he is 12 months old, he can drink cow's milk- after all babies do turn into cows on their birthday
he can drink from a sippy cup- A breastfeeding mother would never say those words, since they understand nursing isn't just about nutrition, but also comfort and attachment
Stop telling moms to put it in a sippy cup.....they should scream nooooooo in your face! First of all, it's NOT the same thing for the child and secondly, I would rather spend my time cuddled up with my child as opposed to isolating myself while two plastic cups suck my nipples off....NO THANK YOU!
I have a great idea.....let moms be! Treat them with love and respect! Moms know how to meet their child's needs and can live without your criticism and judgement!
Maybe you didn't like the cover of Time, but your hateful remarks aren't just directed at one particular mom, it's spreading hatred to moms all around the world.
Moms that just want to love their children the way that works for them- let it be!
Now, regarding attachment parenting. Don't insult a style of parenting, until you know the facts. AP is not a set of rules that everyone takes to extreme measures, it's tools that you can use for better bonding and long term attachment.
I think Annie over at PhD parenting describes attachment parenting beautifully.....
Our children deserve to learn what compassion is, and they learn that most of all by our example. If our children do not learn compassion from us, when will they learn it? The bottom line is that all children behave as well as they are treated – by their parents and by everyone else in their life.
Read more
Attachment Parenting of Metro Jackson was started to provide encouragement to moms that need support when it comes to parenting against mainstream. It's very comforting to be surrounded by moms that offer like-minded advice and treat your parenting choices with respect. Our group is not a cookie cutter club, and that's the beauty of it! Lindsey, chose not to breastfeed her twins but fed them with love and respect. Elizabeth chose not to co-sleep, but always met night time needs. Laura, chose not to be a stay-home mom, but has managed to feed on demand and continue breastfeeding into the second year. I could go on and on, but you get the point.......our group isn't about a specific list of mommy rules you must obey and neither is attachment parenting!
AP has a lot to offer- you choose what works for your family, throw out what doesn't, and let it be!
Until Next Time...........
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