By Rowena Cruz Healthcare workers gain valuable skills and knowledge at the IYCF training in Guinayangan, Quezon on November 22, 2024. (Phot...
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| Healthcare workers gain valuable skills and knowledge at the IYCF training in Guinayangan, Quezon on November 22, 2024. (Photo from Guinayangan PIO) |
GUINAYANGAN, Quezon - With malnutrition posing a significant threat to child development in this town, local healthcare workers here convened on November 22, 2024 at the Mayor Placido O. Isaac Conference Hall for an intensive training session on Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF).
The Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) organized the training to equip these frontline workers—Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS), Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), nurses, and midwives—with the latest information and best practices in infant and young child feeding.
Experts emphasized the critical role of breastfeeding in early childhood development. "Breast milk is truly a superfood for babies," explained Tracy Joyce Lindo, RND from Quezon Provincial DOH Office. "It provides all the essential nutrients they need for healthy growth, along with antibodies that protect them from illness."
In addition to hands-on training in breastfeeding techniques, which included instruction on latching and positioning, participants learned how to address common challenges mothers face.
The comprehensive training also covered complementary feeding, with a focus on introducing solid foods at the appropriate age, ensuring dietary diversity, and promoting healthy eating habits in young children.
Participants engaged in lively group discussions, analyzing case studies of families facing feeding challenges and role-playing scenarios to practice their counseling skills.
The training stressed the importance of effective communication to best support families on their feeding journey.
"This training has been so eye-opening," shared Maria Reyes, a BNS from a nearby barangay. "I feel much more confident in my ability to guide mothers and make a real difference in the lives of children in my community."
Gerry B. Cleofe expressed strong support for the initiative: “Investing in the health and well-being of our children is a top priority. This training equips our BNS, BHWs, and healthcare professionals with the tools they need to be effective advocates for proper nutrition in their communities.”
Local officials, including Mayor Maden Isaac and Vice Mayor Norman Dublois, conveyed their support for the program.
This IYCF training initiative represents a significant step towards achieving national goals to reduce malnutrition and improve the health and well-being of Filipino children.
“This training is not just about imparting knowledge, but about empowering our frontline health workers to make a real difference in the lives of our children,” stated De Vera. “By equipping them with the latest information and best practices in infant and young child feeding, we are investing in the future of our community.”
By empowering these frontline healthcare workers with the knowledge and skills to promote optimal IYCF practices, this initiative promises a brighter, healthier future for the children.
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