Did you know that breastfeeding your toddler is completely normal and is incredibly beneficial for both of you? Once my little ones were over 12 months, I suddenly felt very alone in breastfeeding because I wasn’t seeing anyone else breastfeed their toddlers. I started to feel hesitant to breastfeed in public (even though they didn’t really do it that often) because I was scared of getting nasty comments. It was a weird change, because before they turned one, I had no worries breastfeeding in public! It became really clear to me how much stigma and misinformation there is out there about breastfeeding toddlers. But what remained crystal clear was the profound connection and benefits it brought to both my toddlers and me.
Today, I’m excited to shed light on why continuing to breastfeed your toddler is not only acceptable but also incredibly beneficial. Join me as we explore this enriching chapter of motherhood. We’ll explore why it’s okay to continue breastfeeding your toddler if you both want to keep going, the numerous benefits it offers, how it differs from breastfeeding a younger baby, the frequency of breastfeeding sessions, setting boundaries, and handling criticism from others. Let’s get into it.
Is It Okay to Keep Breastfeeding Your Toddler?
Absolutely! There’s no right or wrong when it comes to the duration of breastfeeding. It depends so much on each individual mum and baby. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends babies are exclusively breastfed until 6 months and then continue breastfeeding along with eating solid foods up to age 2 or beyond if mum and baby wish. It might also help to know that worldwide, the natural age of weaning from breastfeeding varies between 2 years and 7 years of age. Each breastfeeding journey is unique, and continuing to breastfeed your toddler is entirely normal and natural. Trust your instincts and do what feels right for you and your child.
Why Keep Breastfeeding Your Toddler?
Breastfeeding your toddler provides numerous benefits for both of you. It continues to give comfort, security, and nurture a strong emotional bond. Breast milk also continues to provide essential nutrients, antibodies, and immune support, helping to keep your toddler healthy and thriving. On top of that, breastfeeding lowers the risk of you getting ovarian cancer, breast cancer, endometrial cancer, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes. The longer you breastfeed, the lower your risk of developing most of these conditions. The health benefits for you and bub don’t suddenly stop once your baby turns one.
How Is Breastfeeding a Toddler Different to Breastfeeding a Baby?
Breastfeeding a toddler is different from breastfeeding a baby in a lot of ways. Toddlers are more active and curious, so breastfeeding sessions are often shorter and more sporadic. They may also have preferences for certain positions (including some interesting gymnurstics) or times of day. I found my toddlers really didn’t breastfeed much when we were out and about. They were way too busy and interested in other things to breastfeed but would often ask as soon as we got home. Breastfeeding is much more flexible with toddlers too since they aren’t relying only on your milk for nutrition, they can go longer without a breastfeed if you need to (for example, when you go back to work). So, when it comes to breastfeeding your toddler, it’s like stepping into a whole new world of breastfeeding!
How Often Should a Toddler Breastfeed?
How often toddlers breastfeed can vary a lot from one toddler to another. Some might breastfeed many times a day, while others may only breastfeed once or twice. Both of these are normal! It’s also very normal for your toddler to still be waking for breastfeeds through the night. Remember, just like babies, toddlers breastfeed for lots of different reasons, whether it’s for hunger, comfort, or connection. Trust that your toddler knows their own needs best.
It’s Okay to Set Boundaries
As your toddler grows, it’s ok to set some boundaries around breastfeeding if things aren’t feeling great for you. You can gently guide your child towards other comfort strategies and encourage less breastfeeds or shorter breastfeeds if this feels good for you. Setting limits that feel right for both of you can help create a balanced breastfeeding relationship (you are important in this relationship too!).
Dealing with Criticism
Unfortunately, breastfeeding toddlers can sometimes bring uncalled-for criticism from others, though personally I never had any comments or criticism while breastfeeding my toddlers. I do think that it’s becoming more normalised, or at the very least, people do sometimes keep their unwanted opinions to themselves. Remember that you’re making the best choice for your child, and anyone else’s opinion doesn’t define your parenting journey. Surround yourself with supportive people who respect your decisions and trust in your ability to nurture your toddler in the way that feels right for you.
When I was nervous about getting nasty comments, especially about breastfeeding in public, I thought up a response that I practiced in my head over and over. I really don’t like conflict, and I knew that in the moment I wouldn’t know what to do. Having that comeback ready to go made me feel so much more confident, even though I never needed to use it. I hope you never need to use yours either. You might find this blog post about how to deal with criticism about breastfeeding helpful.
Embracing the journey of breastfeeding your toddler is a beautiful and empowering experience. It’s not only okay to continue breastfeeding your older child, it’s also very normal! And it can be incredibly rewarding for both you and your little one. Trust in your instincts, cherish the moments of connection, and celebrate the unique bond you share with your toddler as they grow, knowing you are doing an amazing thing for their health and development.
If you’ve found this post helpful, I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to DM me on Instagram with your thoughts, questions, and experiences. Together, let’s support each other on this wonderful breastfeeding journey and normalise breastfeeding our children into toddlerhood.
If you have questions or concerns, you might like to get in touch with an IBCLC to help you to work out what’s going on and develop a plan that suits your individual situation. You can book a home visit or online consultation with me below.
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