Joshua is nearing his 27th month this October 14th. For most, breasfeeding a child this old is a no-no. We always remember the milk advertisements saying, “Breastmilk is best for babies up to 2 years” but haven’t you noticed the line AFTER that!? It actually says, “Breastmilk is best for babies up to 2 years…..and beyond”. Makes it an entirely different sentence all together.

I am proud to have him nurse until now even with my friends disbelief and sheer displeasure. Lately though I see he is ready to self-wean as long as I too would be weaned. Yup, me. I may have prolonged nursing for selfish reasons. Can you blame a working mom like me who barely has enough time as it is?

I nurse him still 2x a day in the afternoon and nighttime because it is easier for me and faster for him to fall asleep. We can however do it the long way which involves singing, stories and lots of self-control.

I found a great informative site (www.babycenter.com) from moms who’ve been there and these are some of the highlights for weaning a child:

Highlights

Snack vs. breast
Let your child lead the way
Change bedtime routines
Introduce the cup
Avoid familiar nursing positions and places
Take it slow
Tricks for the family bed
A recipe for weaning
Pros and cons of going cold turkey

I have used this technique last night, with lights turned off and a full stomach, I sang and sang and talked about anything and everything - alas it worked! He was snoring in about 30 minutes.

Change bedtime routines

My then 26-month-old daughter Elise’s favorite time to nurse was at night, right before bed. Instead of nursing, I read to her from her favorite books. She would then drink her milk, and snuggle into the pillows ready for sleep. It took a few weeks to get her used to the routine — and some crying — but we learned to bond in a different way.
—Jackie

Hopefully, by December he can finally sleep soundly without me by his side all night. Now, who has tips for weaning mommy’s like me? lolz.

xoxo