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August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, a time to empower families through education, advocacy, and access to resources and support. At the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County, we are especially excited to commemorate this time with the announcement of a new addition coming soon to the museum: The Serenity Room.
The Serenity Room will offer a comfortable and private environment for breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, pumping, and other lactation needs. This space will also provide a quiet retreat for soothing children who may need a moment of calm during their visit to the Children’s Museum. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Kaiser Permanente, the Serenity Room is slated to open in the Spring of 2026.
As we honor Breastfeeding Awareness Month, we are proud to spotlight our partnership with Kaiser Permanente and their ongoing commitment to family health and community wellness. To help deepen our understanding of the importance of breastfeeding support, we spoke with Dr. Tamara Kelly from Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa:
Breastfeeding and Children’s Nutrition Q&A with Dr. Kelly
Dr. Tamara Kelly, MD, is the Chief Physician of Maternal Child Health at Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa. As a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Kelly brings years of experience in supporting families through pregnancy, birth, and early childhood.
In the following Q&A, Dr. Kelly shares expert insight on the benefits of breastfeeding, how to navigate common challenges, and the importance of supporting families on their feeding journeys.
Nurturing your child’s health: a message for National Breastfeeding Awareness Month
Children’s Museum of Sonoma County: Dr. Kelly, as we celebrate National Breastfeeding Awareness Month this August, what do you want to tell our readers about the key benefits of breastfeeding?
Dr. Kelly: Breastfeeding offers remarkable benefits for both babies and mothers. For infants, breast milk provides perfect nutrition that adapts to their changing needs, boosts immune system development, and reduces the risk of infections, allergies, and chronic diseases later in life. Research consistently shows that breastfed babies have lower rates of ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and gastrointestinal issues.
For parents, breastfeeding promotes faster postpartum recovery, reduces the risk of postpartum depression, and offers long-term health benefits, including lower risks of breast and ovarian cancers.
CMOSC: Many new parents struggle with breastfeeding challenges. What advice do you have for families facing difficulties?
Dr. Kelly: Many new parents face breastfeeding challenges, from latch difficulties to concerns about milk supply. If you’re struggling, please know that support is available. Lactation consultants are specially trained to help you navigate these challenges with personalized guidance and practical solutions. You can find a lactation consultant through your healthcare provider.
CMOSC: What would you say to parents who aren’t able to breastfeed?
Dr. Kelly: I want to emphasize an important truth: fed is best. While breastfeeding offers many benefits, a well-nourished baby is the ultimate goal. If breastfeeding isn’t possible or isn’t working for your family, formula feeding is an alternative available to provide your baby with the nutrition they need to thrive. What matters most is that your child receives proper nutrition and that your feeding choice supports your family’s well-being.
CMOSC: How can parents continue building healthy nutrition habits as their children grow beyond infancy?
Dr. Kelly: Good nutrition extends far beyond infancy. As children grow, establishing healthy eating patterns becomes crucial for their development, energy levels, and long-term health. Here are some practical strategies to help your child develop a positive relationship with nutritious foods:
Focus on offering a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Remember that children often need multiple exposures to new foods before accepting them, so patience and persistence are key. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive snacking between meals. Make family meals a priority where possible, creating phone-free zones that encourage mindful eating and meaningful conversation. Children learn healthy eating behaviors by watching and engaging with their families during these shared moments.
CMOSC: What resources are available for expectant parents at Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa?
Dr. Kelly: For expectant parents, preparation can make all the difference in your feeding journey. I’m excited to share that KP Santa Rosa now offers tours of our Labor & Delivery unit, giving you the opportunity to familiarize yourself with our facilities and meet our caring staff before your big day. These tours can help reduce anxiety and ensure you feel supported throughout your birth experience.
Whether you’re planning to breastfeed, formula feed, or use a combination of both, our team is here to support your decisions and help you provide the best possible nutrition for your growing child. Reach out to your provider or visit KP.org for classes on breastfeeding, nutrition, and parenting.
CMOSC: Any final thoughts for parents as they navigate their feeding journey?
Dr. Kelly: Remember, every family’s journey is unique, and there’s no single “right” way to feed your baby. What matters is making informed choices that work for your family and ensuring your child receives the love and nutrition they need to thrive.
For expectant parents, to schedule a Labor & Delivery tour, please contact your Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa provider.
For a list of Kaiser Permanente classes, visit Health & Wellness Classes & Programs | Kaiser Permanente.
More information and resources on breastfeeding and nutrition can be found at Kaiser Permanente Health and Wellness.
Learn More About Kaiser Permanente:
The Serenity Room at the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County
Caring for young children in public spaces can be both joyful and incredibly overwhelming at times. For nursing parents especially, having access to a quiet, comfortable space to feed or soothe a fussy little one can make all the difference during a family outing.
This is why dedicated public spaces that offer privacy, comfort, and resources are so essential. They not only give caregivers a safe environment to tend to their child’s needs but also help normalize the need for feeding accommodations in community spaces.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of Kaiser Permanente, the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County is proud to address this need with the Serenity Room.
The Serenity Room is an inclusive space thoughtfully designed with input from healthcare professionals and caregivers. The room will feature comfortable seating to support various lactation needs, including nursing, bottle-feeding, and pumping. It will also provide a calm environment where caregivers and children can rest and regulate before returning to play.
The Serenity Room is a testament to the Children’s Museum’s commitment to supporting family wellness and childhood development. By making feeding support a visible and valued part of the Museum, we aim to strengthen the sense of welcome and belonging for every visitor. We believe that this inclusivity builds stronger communities, reduces stigma, and sends a powerful message: all families belong here.
Overall, the Serenity Room reflects a shared mission between the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County and Kaiser Permanente:
To nurture community well-being and create safe environments where children and families can truly thrive.
Celebrating National Breastfeeding Awareness Month Together
National Breastfeeding Awareness Month is a time to recognize and uplift the many ways families nourish and nurture their children. It’s also an opportunity to highlight the importance of community support, resources, and understanding.
The Children’s Museum of Sonoma County is proud to partner with Kaiser Permanente in this effort by sharing essential resources and creating spaces like the Serenity Room. Opening in Spring 2026, this space will help ensure families feel supported, respected, and included during every visit.
Together, we can build a community where all families have the support they need to thrive!
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