How to Extend Breastfeeding

Most experts say that it's best for children to be breastfed the first year of their life. But it's actually healthy to continue breastfeeding even when the child is a toddler. It's a sacrifice to extend breastfeeding, but the benefits to your child may be worth it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Gather support. Breastfeeding can be emotionally and physically exhausting. You'll have better success if you surround yourself with people who build you up and who speak positively about breastfeeding your toddler.

2. Learn to breastfeed in public. You're more likely to wean your child if you feel like you can't have a life of your own. It's possible to nurse your toddler in public and still maintain discretion. This way, you don't feel so isolated.

3. Take away bottles and pacifiers. Research shows that babies who suckle on these items are more likely to wean themselves even earlier than the recommended 12 months.

4. Create a routine. Your world is easier to schedule if you know when your toddler is going to eat. Your toddler will appreciate this routine as well.

5. Consider the rest of the world. Internationally, the average age to wean a child is four years old. When you understand that the rest of the world is extends breastfeeding beyond infancy, you'll likely be more motivated to continue.

6. Enjoy it. If you start to resent your child because of breastfeeding, it might be time to consider weaning. Otherwise, enjoy the closeness you have with your baby. It's a relationship that no one else is able to have.