quick clicks

babies today articles

babies today q&a

toddlers today articles

toddlers today q&a

breastfeed.com articles

breastfeed.com q&a

community & groups

research baby names

prepare a birth plan

content channels

ip channel rss feeds

read birth stories

read parenting stories

recommended books

e-newsletters

safety recalls

ip diaries

ip store

mom of the month

dad of the month

editor's letter

letters to the editor

Nursing Beyond One Year

Why Are So Few Moms Breastfeeding Beyond a Year?

By Virginia Gilbert

Since the body naturally produces milk that is age-appropriate for the child, extended nursing provides the same health benefits as it does to a younger infant. The "benefits to the child are also emotional," says Los Angeles lactation educator Fran Jaffe. "A toddler finds comfort in his mom's familiar lap."

Wilde has most appreciated the intimacy her 3 1/2-year breastfeeding practice has fostered among herself, her son and her husband, Bradley, whom she describes as being extremely supportive. "The choice to breastfeed has been very connected to our parenting," says Wilde.

And contrary to the popular belief that nursing can create a wedge between parents, Wilde instead feels that the experience can create opportunities for a father to have time with the child. Explaining that breastfeeding isn't the only way to nurture, Wilde states that fathers can soothe a child who's ill or upset. As for her son, Wilde believes extended nursing has helped him develop into a trusting, secure little boy.

Read part two of this article for more information on the challenges of nursing a toddler, deciding when to wean and handling criticism.