Breastfeeding

Breastmilk is the best food for your newborn. It is made up of water, fat, proteins, vitamins and minerals.  It also contains other components, such as antibodies, antioxidants, growth factors, and hormones.

Breastfeeding can be challenging. If you are struggling or are just looking for reassurance and peer support there are services available locally, have a look at the useful links below.

  • Breast milk provides all the hydration and nutrients your baby needs to grow and develop. Breast milk protects your baby from infections and diseases. The longer you feed the greater the benefits for baby.

    There are also benefits of breastfeeding for you. It helps support quicker recovery after delivery. It also helps reduce your risk of developing some cancers and other diseases and can reduce likelihood of developing post natal depression.

  • Breast milk is uniquely designed to meet the nutritional needs of infants, including those with SEND. It contains essential nutrients and antibodies that help boost their immune system and protect against illnesses.

  • Breast milk is easily digestible, which can be beneficial for children with digestive issues or sensitivities commonly associated with certain SEND conditions.

  • Breastfeeding promotes a strong bond between the parent and child, fostering emotional connection and promoting a sense of security and comfort.

    This can be particularly important for children with SEND, who may benefit from a nurturing and secure environment.

  • Breast milk contains important fatty acids, such as DHA, that support brain development and functioning.

    This can be advantageous for children with SEND, as it may contribute to their overall cognitive growth and learning abilities.

  • Breastfeeding involves close physical contact, allowing the child to experience different sensations, including warmth, touch, and the mother's heartbeat. This sensory experience can have a calming effect and contribute to the child's sensory integration and regulation.

  • Breastfeeding has been associated with a lower risk of various health conditions, such as respiratory infections, gastrointestinal issues, and allergies. This can be beneficial for children with SEND, who may already be more susceptible to certain health challenges.

Breastfeeding can be challenging. It is important to note that each child is unique, and breastfeeding may not always be possible or suitable for every child. Individual circumstances and considerations should be taken into account, and parents should talk to healthcare professionals for personalised guidance and support.

For more information about Breastfeeding visit NHS – Start4life

If you are struggling or are just looking for reassurance and peer support there are services available locally, have a look at the useful links below.

Further Support

Koala North West

Koala North West exists to provide children and their families with tailored practical and emotional support that improves wellbeing, reduces isolation and supports both children and care-givers to thrive.

Community support

Telephone: 0151 608 8288

Email: admin@koalanw.co.uk

Read more about Koala North West

My Child Can Rock Ferry

Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust

Supported by the Birkenhead Health Visiting Team. Offering advice and support around weaning, diet, weight checks, sleep, behaviour concerns and signposting/referrals to other services.

Community support

Telephone: 0151 666 3151

My Child Can St Catherines Hospital

Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust

Supported by the Birkenhead Health Visiting Team. Offering advice and support around weaning, diet, weight checks, sleep, behaviour concerns and signposting/referrals to other services.

Community support

Telephone: 0151 666 3151

My Child Can Bromborough Children’s Centre

Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust

Supported by the Birkenhead Health Visiting Team. Offering advice and support around weaning, diet, weight checks, sleep, behaviour concerns and signposting/referrals to other services.

Community support

Telephone: 0151 666 3151

My Child Can Kings Church, Birkenhead

King's Church welcomes children from 0 to 5 years old for Ready Steady Play. Please join us on Thursday afternoons from 1:30pm to 2:30pm for soft play, slides and tunnels, small world activities and jigsaws and puzzles.

Community support

Telephone: 0151 666 3323

National Breastfeeding Helpline

Independent, confidential, mother-centred, non-judgmental breastfeeding support and information

Community support

Telephone: 0300 100 0212

Email: admin@nationalbreastfeedinghelpline.org.uk

Read more about National Breastfeeding Helpline