Breastfeeding mothers around the world are preparing to participate in The Big Latch On 2012 next week. The Big Latch On, an event that coincides with World Breastfeeding Week, involves mothers and their babies all breastfeeding at a set time. This year, The Big Latch On is scheduled for August 3 and 4.

The aims of The Big Latch On include garnering support for communities to identify and grow opportunities to provide ongoing breastfeeding support and promotion, increasing support for women who breastfeeding, and helping communities positively support breastfeeding in public places. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and then continued breastfeeding for up to two years or beyond.

Last year, 5,687 breastfeeding mothers participating in The Big Latch On, a number that included 412 locations in five countries. This year, 477 locations in 20 countries have signed up to take part in the event.

Each year between August 1 and 7, the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action organizes World Breastfeeding Week. According to (WHO), events including The Big Latch On are planned in more than 170 countries to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world for World Breastfeeding Week 2012.

The Big Latch On originated in New Zealand  by Women’s Health Action in 2005 as part of World Breastfeeding Week. 2012 marks the eighth year for the event. Organizers are hoping to beat previous Big Latch On records and maybe even set the world record.

For more information about The Big Latch On 2012 event or to find a location to participate in, check out The Big Latch On website.

Will you be participating in The Big Latch On?

The Big Latch On 2012 Breastfeeding Event Scheduled For August 3, 4 is a post from: The Inquisitr