Introduction
Returning to work or starting daycare does not mean the end of a breastfeeding journey. With planning, communication, and the right support, breastfeeding and daycare can successfully coexist. Many families find that continuing to provide breast milk while their child is in daycare offers both nutritional and emotional benefits—while also supporting a smooth transition for baby and parent alike.
At The Brunswick School, we partner closely with families to support breastfeeding goals and ensure infants receive consistent, nurturing care throughout the day.
1. Create a Feeding and Pumping Plan Early
Preparation is key when combining breastfeeding and daycare. Before your child’s start date, it’s helpful to establish a feeding and pumping routine that mirrors your anticipated schedule.
Consider:
- Breastfeeding before drop-off and after pick-up
- Pumping during the workday to maintain supply
- Gradually introducing bottles before daycare begins
Starting this process early helps both baby and parent adjust with confidence.
2. Communicate Clearly With Your Daycare Team
Open communication with your child’s caregivers is essential. Sharing your preferences and routines helps ensure consistency between home and daycare.
Be sure to discuss:
- Feeding schedules and hunger cues
- Bottle preparation preferences
- Storage and labeling of breast milk
- Any changes to feeding routines
A strong partnership between families and caregivers supports a smooth and responsive feeding experience for your child.
3. Understand Breast Milk Storage and Labeling
Proper storage and handling of breast milk is an important part of breastfeeding and daycare success. Most daycare programs follow strict guidelines to ensure safety and freshness.
General best practices include:
- Clearly labeling bottles with your child’s name and date
- Providing milk in quantities appropriate for your child’s age
- Transporting milk in insulated containers with ice packs
Your daycare can guide you on specific policies and procedures.
4. Support Your Supply and Be Flexible
Maintaining milk supply while your child attends daycare often requires consistency and flexibility. Pumping regularly during the workday helps signal your body to continue producing milk.
Helpful tips:
- Pump around the times your baby typically feeds
- Stay hydrated and nourished
- Give yourself grace—supply can fluctuate during transitions
Many families also choose a combination approach, supplementing with formula if needed while continuing to breastfeed when together.
5. Focus on the Emotional Transition
Breastfeeding provides comfort and connection, especially during times of change. Continuing to nurse at home can help maintain that bond while your child adjusts to daycare.
Remember:
- Breastfeeding is more than nutrition—it’s reassurance and connection
- Every family’s journey looks different
- A supported parent leads to a supported child
Trust that with time, routines will settle and confidence will grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I continue breastfeeding if my baby is in daycare full time?
Yes. Many families successfully breastfeed while using full-time daycare by pumping during the day and nursing at home.
How much breast milk should I send to daycare?
Amounts vary by age, but most infants take 1–1.5 ounces per hour of separation. Your pediatrician and caregivers can help guide you.
What if my baby prefers breastfeeding over bottles?
Introducing bottles gradually and having caregivers use paced feeding techniques can help ease the transition.
Is it okay to supplement with formula if needed?
Absolutely. Many families use a combination approach. The goal is a healthy, nourished baby and a supported parent.
How can daycare support breastfeeding families?
Daycares support breastfeeding by following safe milk handling practices, communicating openly with families, and responding to each child’s feeding cues.
Final Thought
Breastfeeding and daycare are not opposing choices—they can work together with thoughtful planning and strong communication. With the right support system in place, families can continue their breastfeeding journey while embracing the benefits of a high-quality early childhood program.
