A cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, is the most common craniofacial malformation. The issue of whether health can be attained if the person has a physical defect is discussed. Health education can be considered as a means whereby individuals learn to maintain, restore and promote health. Consideration is given to health promotion and the prevention of ill health in relation to infant feeding. Skill teaching, if successfully completed, may be regarded as a fundamental cornerstone to health promotion.