“When are you going to stop?”
“She is ready to be a big girl now.”
“You are babying her too much.”
“I can’t believe you are still doing that!”
First of all, let me start by saying breastfeeding is hard . . . like, freaking hard. If you make it one latch or five years, you are an amazing mom. It’s so incredible how our bodies work and how perfect our milk is for our baby at every stage of breastfeeding.
» » RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy & Postpartum in ABQ « «
Toddler milk is actually closer to colostrum than milk. It is packed full of nutrients made perfectly for your child, filling gaps in their diet and providing super immunity. If you have ever tried to feed a toddler, you know that sometimes, despite best efforts, they end up eating three fries, half a nugget, and two bites of an apple. I love that breastmilk can provide a perfect drink for picky toddlers. It’s made just for them with exactly what they need.
Breastfeeding has been so challenging at times but now provides me with the sweetest snuggles. I know she would not slow down for this time otherwise. Breastfeeding also brings me peace, joy, and connection in motherhood.
» » » » » » » » » RELATED READ: I Love Breastfeeding My Toddler: It’s a Win Win! « « « « « « « « «
I have received countless unsolicited comments about the very personal decision to extend breastfeeding. It is crazy to me how mom shaming and judgments make such a rapid shift with breastfeeding.
If you don’t breastfeed for the first year, you are a horrible mom, but then if you breastfeed past a year, people start commenting that it’s so crazy or gross.
My bottom line is this: breastfeed as long as YOU and YOUR baby want to. It is AMAZING for you and your child! My daughter is three years old, and I have loved extending our breastfeeding journey. I am here to encourage you that you are not weird or crazy. If you aren’t ready to be done, there are countless benefits for both of you. You got this mama!
”Be who you are. Those who matter don’t mind. Those who mind don’t matter.” -Dr. Seuss
Originally published July 2023.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of ABQ Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
This was exactly what I need to read! I have 4 children, all breastfed. However, they all had their own schedule. My first was fed up to a year because that’s what I was told. My second daughter could have gone past 5 years, but I felt it was time, and she transitioned well! My third daughter was done at 2 years old! My son and final child is three and still wants “Ba-Baz!” This article reminded me to cherish these special moments in motherhood because it doesn’t last. Even though we have endless of happy moments, breastfeeding is pure love. Thank you for sharing your story!