Healthy Communities

Community Support for Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding your baby has become easier than ever! Today’s parents may be surprised to learn that employers and daycare centers must follow regulations that make breastfeeding easier. The Arkansas Department of Health works with teams, employers, and childcare centers to help breastfeeding work for you.
 

Breastfeeding and Breastmilk in Daycare Centersimage of infant

Did you know that new rules are making daycare centers improve – and encourage – breastfeeding? All licensed centers in Arkansas must allow and even encourage breastfeeding at child care centers. Childcare centers that participate in “Child and Adult Care Food Program” link to resources  encourages that babies be fed breastmilk instead of formula. This program also requires daycare centers to allow children to breastfeed without a medical excuse from a physician. USDA Food and Nutrition Service.

Daycare centers can to make breastfeeding easier too! Breastfeeding has become an important part of several nutrition programs for infants and young children. Click here for more information.

Working Moms: The Right to Pump Breastmilk

Arkansas Act 621 of 2009 (link to regulation page) requires employers to provide break time, including a clean private room, to pump breastmilk. Workplace pumping Law.

See what businesses in Arkansas have committed to becoming “breastfeeding friendly,” a project of the Arkansas Breastfeeding Coalition and members of the Arkansas Department of Health.

Hospitals Supporting Breastfeeding

Some hospitals are working to provide the best care for breastfeeding infants and mothers. The Arkansas Department of Health partners with the Arkansas Breastfeeding Coalition and others to help hospitals tackle the “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding” and even bigger changes to help for breastfeeding women.

Direct Support

Didn’t find what you were looking for here? Local health units provide WIC staff qualified in breastfeeding support and counseling.  You can also get help with breastfeeding 24 hours a day/seven days a week by calling the Arkansas WIC Breastfeeding Helpline at 1-800-445-6175. 

Public Health Accrediation Board
Arkansas Department of Health
© 2017 Arkansas Department of Health. All Rights Reserved. www.healthy.arkansas.gov
4815 W. Markham, Little Rock, AR 72205-3867
1-800-462-0599