What is a nursing necklace for?

A nursing necklace is a piece of jewellery designed to be worn by mum while she breastfeeds. Made up of a chain or cord dotted with beads or pendants, it's meant to be handled and held by baby during feeds. Far more than a simple accessory, it accompanies mum and little one day to day and turns breastfeeding into an even gentler, closer moment.

So many mums adopt it because it meets several needs at once: keeping baby occupied and settled, protecting mum from the little involuntary movements of feeding, and remaining a stylish piece of jewellery you'll happily wear all day long.

A precious ally for baby

During feeds, baby naturally needs something to do with their hands. The nursing necklace gives them a reassuring point of reference and a host of benefits:

• Keeping baby occupied and settled: the colours, shapes and textures of the necklace catch their attention and encourage them to touch or chew it. Baby stays calm and focused, for a more peaceful, more effective feed — even when you're out and about and it's hard to breastfeed somewhere quiet.
• Stimulating the senses and development: by handling the beads, baby awakens their sight and touch, which helps develop fine motor skills as well as motor and cognitive development.
• Soothing teething: made from soft, non-toxic silicone, the necklace can be safely chewed to massage the gums and ease the pain of emerging teeth. It makes an ideal companion to the teething ring.
• Strengthening the bond: as it becomes linked with feeding time, the necklace turns into a familiar, reassuring object. Baby recognises it, grows attached to it, and this emotional anchor strengthens the bond with mum.

An everyday asset for mum

The nursing necklace isn't only useful for baby: it also brings comfort and confidence to mum.

• Protecting your neckline: it draws baby's attention away from your hair and skin, and protects your neckline from the scratches and pinches — often unintentional but sometimes painful — that can disrupt a feed.
• Feeling good and confident: feeling beautiful and feminine, mum approaches breastfeeding more relaxed and more at ease, which matters especially during long or frequent feeds.
• A stylish piece of jewellery: elegant and available in a huge range of designs and colours, it suits every style and can be worn like a genuine fashion accessory, even outside feeding times.

An accessory to use safely

It's important to remember that a nursing necklace is not a toy. It should never be left with a baby unsupervised and must be used with care to avoid any risk of strangulation or choking. Be sure to choose a necklace made from quality materials that meets child safety standards, with beads firmly attached to the chain.

How to choose your nursing necklace

To find the model that's right for you, a few things are worth bearing in mind:

• Safety: go for non-toxic materials suited to babies, such as food-grade silicone, natural wood or cotton. The beads should be firmly fixed and the clasp secure enough not to open easily.
• Size and length: the chain should be long enough for baby to reach easily, but not so long that it tangles or wraps around their neck.
• Comfort: a lightweight necklace that's pleasant to wear can be kept on all day without any bother.
• Style and baby's needs: choose a design you love that goes with your outfit. For the littlest ones, opt for soft, textured beads; older babies will enjoy more varied shapes and colours.

Our tips for use

• Wear the necklace right from the start of breastfeeding so baby gets used to having it around.
• Let baby explore it as they please, always under your supervision.
• Clean it regularly with a soft cloth and soapy water.
• Never use it as a toy and never leave baby alone with the necklace.

An ideal gift for mums-to-be and new mums

Practical, useful and elegant, the nursing necklace is an original newborn gift that's sure to delight. Giving one means thinking of the wellbeing of both mum and baby, right from the maternity ward, to approach breastfeeding more calmly. As for budget, expect to pay somewhere between 10 and 50 euros depending on the material, design and finish. You can also pair it with other everyday essentials, such as a comforter clip, to put together a lovely newborn gift set.

With its many benefits for mum and baby alike, the nursing necklace is a real breastfeeding essential. Take the time to choose a model that's just like you: you'll soon discover everything it has to offer.