But in the overall scheme of things, I think a breastfeeding doll has its merits because it promotes something natural and loving. Something that deserves to be recognized.

My husband at first was a bit freaked out by it. I then explained to him about children naturally emulating their parents – such as when my son put a breast pump to his chest when I was still nursing my daughter. He then agreed that it may not be that bad of an idea.

Both of us would prefer to let our children use their imaginations instead, though.

But this doll still bothered me. I don’t mind my kids “breastfeeding” their dolls. But I mind the halter top over the shirt with fake nipples that might draw the eye of folk who I don’t want looking at my kids in that way. But then, I wouldn’t let my kids get shirts that had eyes in those places or whatever either, for the same reason.

As for why bottlefeeding is not a problem — bottlefeeding does not draw attention to the little girl’s chest the way that top does.

But its amazing how many people have totally different opinions because they grew up differently.

Now I’m not a huge fan of the doll, but to each is own. I’m also not Obama’s #1 fan, (there is good and bad), but I definitely DON’T think he should be blamed for the manufacturing of a doll from Spain that wasn’t manufactured here! Does Obama even know Spanish?! Just kidding it seemed to fit with the absurd comments. Ridiculous!

Great job AJ on being the first to blog on this product!

I have to admit I was a bit disturbed by the video. And I’m all for mothers breastfeeding wherever/whenever necessary.

New staff’s reactions always suprised me. I couldn’t count the times I heard at lunch time something like, “…and then the client WHIPPED her TIT out and stuck it right in the baby’s mouth. Then the baby was like SLURPING on it. I couldn’t concentrate at all.”

These weren’t kids. They were adults, and usually well educated ones. Older women while not so vocal, often expressed discomfort over what I believe was their perception of ‘immodesty’.

It was kind of amusing, sad and scary all at once (the reactions, not the breastfeeding). I don’t know how to fully account for what seemed to be exaggerated responses, but I think for many of them it was the first time in their adult lives seeing a breast outside of Playboy, the internet or the bedroom.

So yes, I agree that Americans have a long, looong way to go. Maybe another generation?

BTW, the video was adorable and AJ’s daughter nursing the Costco receipt was hilarious.

Reading through all the comments on the original post though, I was angered to see how many people see breasts as strictly sexual objects, and object to publicizing breastfeeding. The general American opinion seems be that breastfeeding should be done in private, whereas in many other countries, it is acceptable to breastfeed your child whenever and wherever s/he is hungry.

I’m glad that the message is getting out more and more that breastfeeding is healthy and natural, but it seems to me that there is still a long way to go in educating the American public.