A mother recently experienced a shocking reaction after sharing a photo of her toddler pretending to breastfeed a doll, which she thought would elicit a few likes and awws. Instead, she was met with a harsh comment from a so-called friend, who suggested she deserved to be “punched in the damn face” for allowing her child to mimic breastfeeding.
The anonymous mother, who shared her story along with screenshots of the post and the derogatory comment on a Facebook page dedicated to breastfeeding discussions, explained that her two-year-old daughter, Lily, was simply engaging in play. The photo depicted Lily in a shopping cart, lifting her shirt to feed her doll, accompanied by the caption: “You know you’re a breastfeeding mom when you look over in the middle of the store to your toddler saying, ‘Baby cry, baby just wants to eat.’”
To many parents, this behavior seems innocent and playful. However, the mother was taken aback by the vitriol directed at her. The mean-spirited comment read, “If you’re okay with your daughter lifting up her shirt and putting her baby doll’s mouth to her little ‘dots’ pretending to breastfeed then I personally think you need punched in the damn face!!! It’s just simply not okay!!!”
The mother expressed her disbelief, stating, “I still breastfeed Lily and I also formula-fed my son, Noah. Both methods are equally wonderful. I would love to know how this is ‘the nastiest thing’ she has ever seen. Breastfeeding is natural and normal. Why would I tell my daughter this is wrong when it’s just part of her understanding?”
The incident underscores a troubling trend where some adults erroneously sexualize breastfeeding, viewing natural acts as inappropriate. Even when a toy company released a doll designed to normalize breastfeeding—complete with sucking sounds—critics emerged, claiming that it encouraged inappropriate behaviors.
This backlash against the mother serves as a stark reminder of the importance of allowing children to view breastfeeding as a normal part of life. There’s nothing inappropriate about a child playfully caring for their doll, and those who react negatively may need to examine their own perceptions. For further insights on topics related to home insemination and parenting, consider checking out this informative resource on intrauterine insemination, or explore options like the BabyMaker Home Insemination Syringe Kit and the CryoBaby At-Home Insemination Kit for those looking to expand their families.
In summary, this mother’s experience highlights the need for a cultural shift in how breastfeeding is perceived and the importance of allowing children to explore their understanding of nurturing in a healthy, non-sexualized manner.
Keyphrase: toddler breastfeeding play
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