NHS Lanarkshire has completed a pilot of the first-ever project aimed at children and young people across all school years to normalise breastfeeding.

The initiative has been designed to introduce children from nursery onwards to the concept of breastfeeding early, to encourage a shift in cultural perceptions and help promote it as the first choice for new parents.

NHS Lanarkshire says the pilot aims to improve breastfeeding uptake by creating a more supportive community for breastfeeding mothers and their babies, including expanding awareness to young people.

Curriculum Support Teacher for NHS Lanarkshire’s Healthy Schools programme, Susi Cornwell says the initiative is about understanding more about breastfeeding:

“The programme involved curriculum-aligned activities for nursery, primary and secondary pupils, teaching them about the health benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and baby, while also emphasizing the importance of community support.”

This project is part of a broader effort to ensure a whole-system approach to breastfeeding with mothers feeling empowered to continue for as long as they choose.

Last year Glasgow health leaders last year recognised the collective responsibility of promoting breastfeeding in work to share the health and environmental benefits it brings.

Now, Susan Short, NHS Lanarkshire Public Health Nutritionist, added:

“Breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits for both mothers and their babies. For babies, it can reduce the risk of infections, obesity, and certain chronic diseases later in life. For mothers, breastfeeding can help with recovery after birth and lower the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

“Creating a supportive community is crucial, as mothers who feel encouraged and supported are more likely to continue breastfeeding for as long as they want.”

Susi Cornwell said says students response to the work was positive, with many having “fun with these learning experiences.”

She added:

“Many of the children did not actually realise breastfeeding was something a mum could do, and now they see it as something completely natural and normal.”

One pupil noted the savings potential of breastfeeding instead of buying formula: “It is also less expensive and more healthy. So you don’t have to spend all the money!”

Another commented on the environmental impact of using bottles.

When asked why they were being taught about breastfeeding when they were too young to have a baby just now, one pupil remarked: “If you have a wee baby of your own later, you might actually do it.”

Another Lanarkshire school pupil added:

“You can help a mum by getting the clothes out, cleaning up around the house, you could do washing or cook for them but don’t burn the house down when it’s happening!”

NHS Lanarkshire says the pilot both educated pupils about the value of breastfeeding and played a key role in introducing breastfeeding to the young learners before negative attitudes become entrenched, contributing to a healthier and more informed future generation.

Read more: Children's health not improving despite good policy; Health poverty hits children halfway through pregnancy; Medics warn pollution is risking children's health; Breastfeeding in Glasgow: A collective responsibility; Children's health at risk from food insecurity

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