My DD is 6 months old. The pumping is killing me. We get 2 30-minute planning periods. It takes me about 7 minutes to get back to my room and get everything set up and then another 4 minutes to clean up when done. It's just not enough time, and then I can't get anything done during my precious planning time. I have a hands-free pump bra and a dual-pump. I just don't know what I can do. Plus, I only get like 7oz a school today. I'm frustrated and sad. I don't want to gie up breast feeding. I feel like I would be so mad at myself. But I hate it!! I thought maybe people who have been there might have tips....
Have you talked to your administration about a change in your schedule or some coverage? Most employers are legally obligated to provide you with adequate and appropriate time and space to pump.
I'm in the exact same situation with my five month old. I have been pumping during my lunch break- while checking my email and doing any work I can on my computer. It is the definition of multi-tasking. Some days I really want to quit, but I'm going to keep at it for now. Whatever you decide is the right decision for you and your baby. You kept it up for 6 months- be proud! Good luck!
I know my administrator would have to accommodate me if I needed extra time, but I don't want to put that burden on other people. I pump in my room, so where would the kids be? Who would watch them? So many logistics... Thanks Fitzgerald... at least nice to know I'm not alone! I feel like I will have a whole new lease on life when I have my planning time back. But then again, I want to bf until she's a year so that won't be until April!
My mom hated breast feeding. She just never got the hang of it and didn't have the patience. I like to think I turned out okay I have no plans to breast feed. We had a student ago breast fed during her 30 minute intervention period. She used a special Ed teacher's office. It worked really well!
I don't have any advice, sorry! I totally can imagine how stressful it is though. This is my 3rd child and I've never breastfeed, but am amazed at those who do and still juggle work and other responsibilities. Between planning, teaching, driving home, doing housework, spending time with all three of my kids--I am exhausted. Like someone else said, breastfeeding is a protected thing and you can get as much time as you need to do it--I understand not placing burdens on others but I know I'd be willing to help a breastfeeding woman--simply because I know how overwhelmed you must be feeling!
Is your child starting to eat solid food so needs less milk? I know many working moms who have weaned down to feeding in the morning, evening and night, and they still had milk and their body got used to it. This is often how kids self-wean by skipping feedings gradually. It may be a compromise to keep your sanity.
Hang in there! I just finished pumping for my ten month old. Are there any other spaces on the school you can pump? When my room wasn't available due to inside recess or an in class fine art class, I went to my friend's room that had a large closet that locked. She was also pumping and was amazing enough to share her space with me! Could you buddy up with another teacher who can walk your class to pull outs? Maybe you could pick up both classes in exchange, but that would buy you a few minutes. Don't be discouraged by amounts. Drink lots of water, and make sure you snack throughout the day. Oatmeal is great to boost your supply!
I'm wondering if you can cut down on the time it takes to get back to your room. If you're taking students to related arts or lunch, maybe someone could help. Meaning, maybe the related arts teachers wouldn't mind to pick up your students from your classroom or a neighboring teacher on his/her way to lunch can take your class as well. Seven minutes is a lot of "wasted" time you could really use.
Huge hugs! I pumped while working at a private company, so I don't have experience with schools. But I called it quits shortly after a year and it was the happiest day of my life! The stress of trying to hit a number of ounces/day, the washing of the bottles, ect-awful! I just weaned Henry after 15 months of breast feeding (for my own selfish weight loss goals, I'll admit), and that, too, was a happy day. You're doing great, mama. Breast feeding is HARD.
Talk to your principal. It think it is law that they have to provide you with space and time to pump. I know it is easier said than done, but your daughter (son?) is important, and if stepping out to pump is what you have to do, your class will be okay.
