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Tiny tots to learn benefits of breastfeeding

Plans have been finalised to make breastfeeding a part of the education curriculum for different stages and ages of students at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels within the next two years.

Education Council Secretary-General Aisha Saif said breastfeeding was a “vital aspect” of motherhood that should not only be taught to mothers.

“Students who are taught about the benefits of breastfeeding will graduate to become the employers, health professionals and policy makers of tomorrow. Therefore, we are planting the seed of awareness early in their education, so that by the time they grow, Sharjah will bloom into an international leader,” she said.

The decision was made during a meeting between the Sharjah Education Council (SEC) and the Sharjah Baby Friendly Emirate Campaign recently.

The decision would ensure students grew up with a greater awareness and stronger understanding of the benefits of breastfeeding from a medical, emotional, social and economic basis, officials said.

“Some countries emphasise the importance of breastfeeding only to women who are pregnant or after childbirth,” said Dr Hessa Khalfan, executive committee director of the campaign. “But by that stage it might be too late as some women will already have decided to use artificial milk,” she said.

“Consequently, the earlier we teach students these benefits, the higher the chances that they will grow up to support baby-friendly practices when they become parents, nursery owners, business owners, hospital owners and more,” she added.

She also said that the curriculum will be designed keeping in mind Arabic traditions. “It will be designed sensitively and be part of the topic of nutrition,” she added.

According to figures from the World Health Organisation, about 88 per cent of new mothers in the UAE start to breastfeed their infants at birth but only 31 per cent continue till five months. Around 27 per cent of mothers continue to breastfeed but mixed with bottle feeding.

Studies have shown that children who were breastfed are smarter and have lower risk of contracting diseases, allergies, being overweight and obese.

The world health body advises mothers to exclusively breastfeed for up to six months, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods for up to two years of age.

The meeting also discussed that the nurseries plan for the SEC should include requirements of breastfeeding-friendly nurseries. Seminars and educational events will also be held in future to spread awareness.

asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE