Knowing the breastfeeding experiences of Brazilian children that attend elementary school

Abstract

This is a cross-sectional study that aims to know about the experiences of breastfeeding, from Brazilian children studying the 4o and 5o grade of elementary school. Research developed from September/2010 to February/2011, with 1800 Brazilian children in public schools of three cities in Sao Paulo state, using a questionnaire. Although mostly (90,2%) knew that has been breastfed, not all Brazilian families enjoy moments of coexistence to show breastfeeding as natural for children, and the use of pacifier is cultural. When the children plays, they incorporate tools that stimulate feeding and even express dislike when women breastfeed on public places. Not all the children knew that breast milk is the best food for babies, and have misconceptions about it and its advantages. The results suggest that it is urgently needed to implementation of educational breastfeeding promotion policies.

Descriptors: Breastfeeding; Child; Knowledge; Attitude; Health promotion.