Context:
Infections are prevented through immunization and handwashing, but nurturing a child’s growth also demands age-appropriate nutrition. Early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) within the first hour of birth and exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first six months are recommended to reduce infections and mortality. However, EIBF and EBF rates in India are lower due to psycho-social barriers, traditional practices, and misconceptions. One common misconception is that giving water or other fluids alongside breast milk is necessary to quench thirst, while another is that breast milk alone is insufficient for the baby’s growth, leading to the introduction of other foods prematurely, which can be harmful and undermine the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding. Addressing these misconceptions is crucial to promote proper breastfeeding practices for better child health outcomes
Purpose:
The purpose of the ‘Age-Appropriate Nutrition Card (babies up to 6 months old)’ is to raise awareness among caregivers about the significance of optimal nutrition for babies under 6 months old. It emphasizes the remarkable properties of a mother’s first milk, often referred to as “liquid gold,” which serves as their first vaccine, providing essential nutrients crucial for a baby’s immunity. The card emphasizes the vital role of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of a baby’s life, underscoring that breast milk alone fulfils all the nutritional requirements for the infant during this critical period. By promoting exclusive breastfeeding, the card aims to empower caregivers with the knowledge and understanding needed to make informed decisions about their baby’s nutrition, leading to better health outcomes and a strong foundation for the baby’s overall development.
Target Groups:
Grandmothers and mothers of neonates and infants up to 6 months old, pregnant women
Key Messages:
- The ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ of nutrition for a baby from 0 to 6 months old
- Importance of early initiation of breastfeeding
- Importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months
Duration:
3 minutes
Required Resources:
Age-appropriate Nutrition Card (Babies up to 6 months old)
How to Use:
Facilitators begin by highlighting the significance of age-appropriate nutrition beyond disease prevention in a child’s growth and development. They introduce the concept that a mother’s first milk acts as the baby’s first vaccine, delivering essential nutrients. The card is then used to foster discussions around the do’s and don’ts of nutrition for babies up to 6 months old, emphasizing the importance of exclusive breastfeeding during this period.
