Table 1 Steps in the proposed Baby Friendly Community Initiative (BFCI) program in Kenya

Step 1

Have a written MIYCN policy summary statement that is routinely communicated to all health providers, community health volunteers and community

Step 2

Train all health care providers and community health volunteers in the knowledge and skills necessary to implement the MIYCN policy

Step 3

Promote optimal maternal nutrition among women and their families

Step 4

Inform all mothers and their families about the benefits of breastfeeding and risks of artificial feeding

Step 5

Support mothers to initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth, establish and maintain exclusive breastfeeding for first 6 months

Step 6

Encourage sustained breastfeeding beyond 6 months to 2 years or more alongside timely introduction of appropriate, adequate and safe complementary foods

Step 7

Provide a welcoming and conducive environment for breastfeeding families

Step 8

Promote collaboration between health care staff, maternal, infant and young child nutrition support groups and the local community