How can I get my 20 month old to stop breastfeeding?

Understanding the Transition
Weaning a 20-month-old from breastfeeding can be a significant transition for both the child and the parent. At this age, many toddlers are still deeply attached to the comfort and security that breastfeeding provides. However, if you feel ready to stop, there are gentle and effective strategies to make this process smoother.
Timing and Readiness
The first step in this journey is to assess both your readiness and your child’s. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that while breastfeeding can continue beyond the first year, the decision to wean should be mutual and based on comfort levels for both parties. It’s essential to approach this transition with sensitivity, as abrupt changes can lead to emotional distress for your toddler.
Gradual Weaning Approach
A gradual approach to weaning is often recommended. Start by identifying the breastfeeding sessions that your child seems least interested in. Many parents find that morning or bedtime feedings are the last to go, as these times are often associated with comfort and routine. You might begin by dropping one session per week, focusing on the most inconvenient feeding or the one your child shows less interest in.
As you reduce the number of breastfeeding sessions, consider replacing them with other comforting activities. This could include cuddling, reading a book, or engaging in playtime. Such alternatives can help maintain the emotional connection without relying on breastfeeding.
Limiting Breastfeeding Locations
Another effective strategy is to limit where breastfeeding occurs. Start by confining breastfeeding to specific locations, such as your home or a designated room. This can help your toddler understand that breastfeeding is not available everywhere, which may ease the transition.
Communication and Comfort
Throughout this process, communication is key. Explain to your toddler what is happening in simple terms. Use positive language to frame the change, emphasizing that they are growing up and can enjoy new foods and activities. Offering reassurance and comfort during this time is crucial, as toddlers may feel a sense of loss or confusion.
Seeking Support
If you find the process challenging, consider reaching out for support. Organizations like the NCT (National Childbirth Trust) offer counseling services where you can discuss your concerns and get personalized advice. Connecting with other parents who have gone through similar experiences can also provide valuable insights and encouragement.
Conclusion
Weaning your 20-month-old from breastfeeding is a personal journey that requires patience and understanding. By taking a gradual approach, limiting breastfeeding locations, and maintaining open communication, you can help your child transition smoothly while preserving the bond you share. Remember, every child is different, and it’s important to find a method that works best for both of you.

At what age is breastfeeding no longer beneficial?

But Dr Max Davie, from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, says there is limited evidence of additional nutritional benefit beyond the age of two. “By the age of two, a child should get all the nutrients required through their diet so there is no additional benefit to breastfeeding over this age.”

How long does it take for a toddler to adjust to no breastfeeding?

As with anything closely related to weaning, patience and consistency is ultra-important. These transitions and shifts in routine don’t happen overnight and sometimes take a few weeks or longer until your toddler is fully accustomed to their “new” normal – and that’s perfectly okay! Take it slow.

How to stop breastfeeding a 2 year old naturally?

One approach is to drop 1 feeding session a week until your child takes all the feeds from a bottle or cup. If you want to give your child pumped breast milk, you’ll need to pump to keep up your milk supply. If you are weaning your child off breast milk, slowly dropping feeds can help avoid breast engorgement.

What are the negative effects of breastfeeding too long?

For example, duration of breastfeeding experience has been shown to correlate negatively with parent-reported antisocial and aggressive behavior in children from 4 to 11 years of age [43]. These effects on antisocial behavior appear to extend well beyond childhood into adulthood.

Why does my 20 month old want to breastfeed constantly?

But toddlers don’t just nurse for nutrition or quench their thirst; they do so when they are craving connection, attention, are tired, bored, etc.

How to stop breastfeeding for a 2 year old naturally?

Dropping or limiting feeds
Consider dropping daytime breastfeeds first, then gradually drop any bedtime or night-time feeds. These are probably the ones that give your child the most comfort. Introduce a few limits, like not breastfeeding when you’re out or feeding only after lunch during the day.

Can I stop breastfeeding at 20 months?

The World Health Organization recommends that all babies be exclusively breastfed for 6 months, then gradually introduced to appropriate foods after 6 months while continuing to breastfeed for 2 years or beyond. Stopping breastfeeding is called weaning. It is up to you and your baby to decide when the time is right.

How to wean off comfort nursing?

Once they stop nursing out of hunger and begin instead suckling for comfort, gently unlatch them and place them back in their crib or bed. From there, you can begin gradually taking a minute or so off each overnight nursing session until they are eventually eliminated.

How often should a 20 month old breastfeed?

Your toddler is likely nursing a few times per day, although some continue to nurse around the clock. We support continued on-demand breastfeeding as long as it works for the baby and the parent. At this age, solid foods are becoming the primary source of nutrition, and the solid food meal should be prioritized.

How to stop a 20 month old from breastfeeding?

How to Stop Breastfeeding — at 1 year old, 14, 15, and even 18 months?

• Take away one feeding at a time
• Eliminate the easiest feedings first
• Offer a meal instead of nursing.
• Give a cup at each meal, and place either breast milk or cow’s milk in the cup.