How To Wean A Toddler From Breastfeeding

Changing any habit of a toddler’s is a big challenge, especially if it is giving up nursing. Toddlers have had the breast to comfort and feed them their entire life, so just giving it up is not something they really want to do. Sure, some toddlers wean quite easily, yet there are others that will nurse forever if you let them. There is no problem nursing your toddler if that is what you want to do, however if you have decided it is time to wean then there are some things you can do to help the transition.

Explain

You will want to explain that your toddler must give up breastfeeding and that it is because he is growing up to be such a big boy that he now needs to drink out of a cup. Name another child who is friends with your toddler and who doesn’t breastfeed. Explain how he drinks from a cup and so can your toddler. Tell them that your breasts are tired from so much work and they need a break.

Replace Feedings

You need to start replacing feedings. Take your child to pick out some big boy cups and then start replacing each nursing session with a cup of whole milk. Your child will probably resist this at first so you need to make it enticing. Give them chocolate or strawberry milk, cut with regular milk, so they feel like they are getting a big treat by giving up the breast. Over time, you can cut the chocolate milk with more regular so that eventually your toddler is just drinking regular milk.
Replace mid day feedings first. The nighttime and early morning feedings are the hardest to replace so you will need to be strong when letting these go.

Reduce Milk Production

If you start producing less milk and your child is nursing less frequently then it is possible they will feel nursing isn’t worth the hassle if there is no milk there. You can use cabbage leaves in your bra and ensure they cover your entire breast and side. This helps milk production go down for some reason. There are other things you can take that will help with milk reduction, too.

The most important thing to have when weaning a toddler from the breast is patience. They love nursing, it is their source of comfort and love. Understand this and be sure to provide them with a great deal of love and attention every day. Let them know that just because they aren’t nursing doesn’t mean they can’t snuggle. Do your best to provide extra love and hugs while you are weaning your toddler.

Posted in Toddler Time