Expecting an addition to your family? You might want to check out a new children's book, Mommy Breastfeeds my Baby Brother (Istoria House, 2009).
This book teaches young children about breastfeeding by telling the story of Jenna, a little girl whose family welcomes a new baby. Jenna asks questions about breastfeeding, and learns to adapt to the mother's divided attention, especially at feeding times.
The mother in the story wants Jenna to play quietly during feedings. To make nursing times more positive for Jenna is a box of old and new toys, which they call "feeding time toys." This makes the baby's frequent feedings less difficult for Jenna.
This book addresses a topic not covered in any detail in other children's books, and it does so in a positive and empathetic way. A range of feelings is expressed, from curiosity to frustration and jealousy. The illustrations are bright and pleasant.
Two notes for those considering buying the book: 1) The story does not involve tandem nursing (there's an idea for another book!), and 2) the mother in the story is returning to work and using a breastpump - a situation which may or may not apply in your family. This was the only part of the story which I didn't find realistic; the mother begins pumping to return to work only a few days after coming home from the hospital.
Overall, I think that this book is a fun and helpful tool to help an older sibling learn about breastfeeding.
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