with the opportunity to highlight some of the benefits of breastfeeding.

For the baby these include giving the best nutrients possible to a growing infant, promoting healthy teeth and jaws for beautiful smiles and providing those ever important antibodies to reduce the risk of those ear and gastrointestinal infections.

Mellonie Barnum of the Health Department says a woman reduces her risks of breast cancer by choosing to breastfeed. It also helps her body to return to its pre-pregnant state, not to mention the convenience and monetary savings she may achieve.

"Despite all the benefits, let us explore some of the barriers to breastfeeding. The early return to work for some women creates a deterrent to the initiation of breastfeeding,'' she told The Royal Gazette .

"Does the workplace provide a suitable area for the expressing of milk? Is there a refrigerator to store the expressed milk until the end of the day? Are you allowed time at work to do this task? "Make an appointment with your boss during pregnancy to discuss all of these provisions to help your choice to breastfeed a successful one,'' Ms Barnum said.

She added that a shopping trip or social event can also create a few barriers in themselves.

Are there designated private areas? Are these areas suitable? Your choice of clothing lends itself to facilitating easy access for your infant to breastfeed.

"The confidence with which you adeptly maneuver your infant will inevitably come within the first few weeks, but be patient with yourself. After all, every skill needs time for development. Allow yourself time to feel comfortable and confident,'' Ms Barnum said.

*** What is the difference between discipline and child abuse? Police Sgt. Clarke A. Minors is expected to answer that and other questions this evening when he meets with parents at Clearwater Middle School in St.

George's.

Sgt. Minors, of the Police Community & Juvenile Services Department, will discuss with the PTA the role of the CJS Department in cases of assault (sexual and physical) as it relates to juveniles.

He will also explain what Police look for in cases of alleged abuse; how to avoid abuse; and statistics concerning abuse.