La Leche League Philosophy

The basic philosophy of La Leche League is summarized in the following statements:

•     Mothering through breastfeeding is the most natural and effective way of
understanding and satisfying the needs of the baby.

•     Mother and baby need to be together early and often to establish a satisfying
relationship and an adequate milk supply.

•     In the early years the baby has an intense need to be with his mother which
is as basic as his need for food.

•     Breast milk is the superior infant food.

•     For the healthy, full-term baby, breast milk is the only food necessary until the
baby shows signs of needing solids, about the middle of the first year after birth.

•     Ideally the breastfeeding relationship will continue until the baby
outgrows the need.

•     Alert and active participation by the mother in childbirth is a help in getting
breastfeeding off to a good start.

•     Breastfeeding is enhanced and the nursing couple sustained by the loving
support, help, and companionship of the baby’s father. A father’s unique
relationship with his baby is an important element in the child’s development
from early infancy.

•     Good nutrition means eating a well-balanced and varied diet of foods in as
close to their natural state as possible.

•     From infancy on, children need loving guidance which reflects acceptance
of their capabilities and sensitivity to their feelings.