How To Encourage Self-Weaning When The Time Is Right
byOlivia Youngs
The mother-child relationship created by breastfeeding can be one of the most special parts of your child's first year (or years). It provides them with all the necessary nutrients needed for growth and development, as well as provides the foundation for a beautiful mother-baby bond. Like most things in life, however, there comes a time for it to end. Each child and family is different and will nurse for different lengths of time, but learning how to encourage self-weaning is one of the easiest ways to gradually wean your child.
Whether you're weaning a toddler or a younger child, letting them go at their own pace has numerous benefits for both them and you. According to La Leche League International, most babies exhibit "windows of opportunity" when it comes to weaning. Meaning, if you notice your baby showing less interest in nursing, they're eating more and more solids, or nursing only for comfort measures, it could be a great time to start lessening your breastfeeding sessions.
Although sometimes mothers are ready to wean before their babies are (it's not wrong to want your body back) sometimes waiting until your baby shows signs of readiness is worth the wait. Take it slow, be patient with your baby, and know that they'll let you know when the time is right to wean. But, if you want to give them an extra push, here are some tips for getting your baby to wean.