Middletown Moms Help Set 'Big Latch On' Breastfeeding Record

Middletown moms participated in The Big Latch On, an international synchronized breastfeeding celebration for World Breastfeeding Week which set a new record this past weekend.

An astounding 14,536 babies drank mother's milk simultaneously on Aug. 2 and 3 at 10:30 a.m. each day, as women and their children came together round the world and breastfed simultaneously. 

This year, the Big Latch On grew with 621 locations registered across 25 countries.

“Numbers really are only a small part of the story," says Beth Brownstein, Birth & Postpartum Doula, Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.

"This event is held to develop the support of local communities for families. I know many friendships were formed this morning and all those who were involved had lots of fun. It is really important that we continue to make breastfeeding in public a normal and supported part of having a child.”

Brownstein characterized the turnout at Sweet Harmony Cafe & Bakery on Main Street in Middletown on Saturday at "amazing." Forty-five mamas and babies along with many, many of their friends and family members took part. 

"We all know how important breastfeeding is and this way we can show everyone just how much we all value breastfeeding and support all women as they grow the next generation," Brownstein says.

Last year, 8,862 women and their children came together and breastfed simultaneously as part of the Big Latch On.

On Tuesday, Middletown-area mothers will be celebrating World Breastfeeding Week at Middlesex Hospital at 10 a.m. in the North One meeting room. The theme is "Breastfeeding Support: Close to Mothers."

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