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The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be breastfed for 12 months. This is often a beautiful bonding experience as well as an especially healthy time for both mother and child. However, the time comes when the baby must be weaned. Regardless of how long you've been breastfeeding, you will experience some physical discomfort, and the child will probably feel some emotional upheaval. There are tips for weaning from breastfeeding that make the transition easier for both of you.
Weaning an infant from breastfeeding is an important milestone for both mother and child. Since breastfeeding is a habit and a bonding experience for an infant, weaning is the process of introducing the child to new habits for feeding.. Weaning must be done gradually so as not to be a traumatic experience for the baby.
When to wean a child from breastfeeding is a difficult decision. The World Health Organization endorses breastfeeding a child for the first 24 months of life or longer. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises breastfeeding for the first 6 months followed by a combination of breast milk and solid food until a child is 12 months old. Here are some of the signs to note that indicate a readiness to wean.
