Breastfeeding at Beaches

As a breastfeeding mother, you've quickly learned that your little one needs to eat no matter the place, and she might start showing hunger cues at the most inopportune times. When you're headed to the beach with your family, don't forget to throw in your nursing supplies along with your sunscreen and beach towel because your baby is probably going to need to nurse during your day on the sand. If you're well prepared, breastfeeding at the beach can be as easy and comfortable as it is from the comfort of your home.

Routine

A day at the beach certainly isn't your average day, but you should remain on your regular breastfeeding schedule with your baby. Keep an eye on the time throughout your day, making sure that your baby is fed at normal intervals. If you have a newborn, he might be eating as frequently as every two to three hours -- or less. Older babies might not nurse as often, but they'll need the regular sustenance when you're at the beach. Although your location has changed, your baby's feeding schedule should not.

Location

When you're setting up for a day at the beach, check out the area for a spot that's breastfeeding friendly. Find a shady spot, if possible, where you can keep your baby out of the sun while you breastfeed. If the beach is crowded and you're shy about nursing in public, opt for a more secluded location or a spot where you can at least face away from the crowds as you breastfeed. With a breastfeeding-friendly setup, feeding your baby at the beach can be a breeze.

Supplies

As a breastfeeding mom, you probably don't think much about feeding your baby because you always have all of the supplies you need. However, a trip to the beach might require a few additional supplies to make your breastfeeding experience simple and hassle-free. Choose a lightweight receiving blanket or nursing cover that allows you to shade your baby -- and give yourself some privacy -- when breastfeeding at the beach. If no natural shade is available, bring a beach umbrella that allows you to create a shady spot suitable for nursing. Wear a swimsuit that makes it easy for you to nurse -- one with a high neckline, for example, might be tough to slip out of, while one with a lower neckline would be easy to pull down. Toss a portable, battery-powered fan in your beach bag so that you can keep your baby cool while she nurses.

Legal Right

Whether you're a nursing-in-public pro or a first-time mom breastfeeding outside of the house for the first time, you can be confident thanks to laws that keep your rights protected. Forty-five states have established laws that protect mothers who nurse in public, which includes breastfeeding on the beach. Even more, the National Conference of State Legislators reports that 28 states exempt breastfeeding from public indecency laws. After all, your baby needs to eat, whether you're at home or at the beach, which is why laws are in place to allow you to feed your baby wherever and whenever you please.