The Breastfeeding‑Friendly Early Childhood Service Checklist
By Dr Sarah Alexander
Parents are often told directly or indirectly that they should stop breastfeeding or switch to formula before enrolling their baby in an early childhood education (ECE) service. This is unnecessary.
A supportive ECE environment can make it easier for families to continue breastfeeding, strengthening the parent‑child bond, supporting healthy brain development, and protecting infant health. It also saves families money, as breastmilk is free and safe with no contamination risks.
When choosing an ECE service, use this checklist to see how well it supports breastfeeding continuity and family wellbeing.
Our Breastfeeding-Friendly Checklist
1. There is a comfortable, private area (not a staff room, storeroom, or toilet) with supportive seating, fresh drinking water, and cushions for comfort.
2. The adults are relaxed and supportive when mothers choose to breastfeed in the main play area.
3. Staff ask about breastfeeding and infant feeding at enrolment and continue these conversations as the child settles in.
4. Adults show through words and actions that they are supportive, knowledgeable, and respectful of each family’s feeding choices.
5. Staff are comfortable with breastfeeding beyond infancy and understand its benefits for older infants and toddlers.
6. The service has a clear breastfeeding policy that guides staff practice and helps orient new team members.
Need to know information about breastfeeding and breast-milk
Recommended duration
Babies should be breastfed (or receive expressed milk) exclusively for around 6 months. Breastfeeding can continue alongside solids for 1-3 years or longer.
Feeding at the ECE service
Services must provide a comfortable, non‑bathroom space for parents to breastfeed on site.
Storing expressed milk
- Use sterilised bottles or containers with tight‑fitting lids.
- Safe storage times: 4 hours at room temperature, up to 2 days in the back of the fridge, and up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Thaw in the fridge or warm water; never use a microwave.
- Test temperature on the inside of your wrist and use immediately. Do not reheat or refreeze.
Introducing water and cow’s milk
- Cow’s milk should not be given before 1 year due to high protein and salt levels and insufficient nutrients for infants.
- Water can be offered after 6 months.
