I have done them both and plan to do so with the noob. I think these are things that women of color don't really talk about. Not sure why though. For me, I have been made to feel guilty for keeping my children in carriers (ring slings, mei tais, etc) for longer than 3 months by some people. Really? Whatever. My children have been worn and my three year old continues to be worn when she wants. After all the research that says that these types of interactions- breasfeeding, cosleeping and babywearing help with the overall health of baby and supports the bond between parent and child? I ran into a mama today who told me that she doesn't typically go around telling people that she cosleeps and breastfeeds because of folks' initial reaction to her decision. I told her not to let people influence or get her down for what she is doing. We moms need sleep and infants/babies need to eat. I (or hubby, even though he would) don't want to get up at 3:47am to fumble around in the dark to make a bottle when I can just roll over with the goods, you know? I am much happier doing this. I think as women (and women of color), we are harderst on both ourselves and each other.
If you don't know, do some reasearch for yourself and stop harassing me about my decisions. If you ask me, I will do my best to educate you however do not then turn around and belittle me about what I have decided to do with my babies.
What do you think? Do we talk about these intimate decisions enough? Not enough? What do we need to do to alleviate the stigma and not shame mamas for breastfeeding, cosleeping and babywearing? (I feel like you lovelies know me well enough to know that I don't really mind what people say, however I am still trying to find my voice when people make snarky comments). I think grassroots organizations have done a wonderful job promoting these topics but I know there is more we can do......
