Breastfeeding and Tips for Increasing Milk Production
Tips for Successful Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is one of the most natural and nurturing ways to nourish your baby, yet it can sometimes come with challenges. Every mother’s journey is unique, and it’s important to remember that both you and your baby are learning together. With patience, support, and the right guidance, breastfeeding can be a deeply rewarding experience for both mother and child.
Tips for Breastfeeding Success
1. Find a comfortable position
Comfort is key—for you and your baby. Whether you prefer the cradle hold, football hold, or side-lying position, experiment to find what feels natural and supportive for your body. A good nursing pillow can make a big difference.
2. Focus on a good latch
A proper latch helps prevent soreness and ensures your baby is feeding effectively. Your baby’s mouth should cover both the nipple and a good portion of the areola, with lips flanged outward.
3. Feed on demand
Newborns nurse frequently, often 8–12 times per day. Following your baby’s hunger cues instead of watching the clock can help establish a strong milk supply and keep your little one satisfied.
4. Stay hydrated and nourished
Your body is working hard to produce milk. Drinking plenty of water and eating balanced meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and whole grains supports both your health and your milk production.
5. Rest whenever possible
Breastfeeding can be tiring, especially in the early weeks. Accept help from loved ones so you can prioritize rest and recovery.
Tips for Increasing Milk Production
If you’re looking to boost your supply, try these supportive practices:
Nurse often and fully – The more milk is removed, the more your body will produce. Offer both breasts at each feeding and allow baby to feed until finished.
Pump between feedings – Short pumping sessions can stimulate additional milk production and build up a reserve for later.
Power pumping – Mimicking cluster feeding with timed pumping sessions can encourage supply increases.
Skin-to-skin contact – Holding your baby against your bare chest helps regulate their feeding cues and stimulates milk production.
Avoid unnecessary supplementation – Unless medically recommended, frequent nursing is more effective than replacing feedings with formula.
Seek support early – Lactation consultants can provide invaluable tips for troubleshooting supply or latch challenges.
How We Support Breastfeeding at Le Petit Elephant Nursery and Preschool
At Le Petit Elephant Nursery and Preschool, we honor and celebrate the breastfeeding journey. We know that every family’s feeding choices are deeply personal, and we are committed to supporting mothers in whichever way they choose to nourish their baby.
For breastfeeding families, we:
Welcome mothers on campus anytime to nurse their babies in a calm, nurturing space.
Provide a supportive environment where staff encourage and assist families in maintaining their breastfeeding goals.
Accommodate breastmilk storage and feeding so that babies can continue to receive breastmilk during their day at LPE.
Respect family rhythms by following each child’s individual feeding schedule.
We believe that when mothers feel supported, babies thrive—and at LPE, we are honored to be part of that journey. We have provided some additional resources below for your breastfeeding/pumping journey:
Lactation Cookies Recipe (these are delicious!)