It's a relatively common practice in some north african cultures too Jennifer, and girls of any age do it if they're caring for an infant and it's fretful. It means that by the time many girls give birth they already know concretely how to breastfeed from comforting younger siblings/relatives that way.
I never thought of it that way, Hoobley! And yet to think if it happened here ppl would be horrified.

RH, hope you still feel like it's okay to share your opinion. {Hugs}