How to stop a 19 month old from breastfeeding?

Understanding the Weaning Process
Weaning a 19-month-old from breastfeeding can be a significant transition for both the child and the parent. At this age, toddlers often have strong emotional attachments to breastfeeding, which can make the process challenging. However, with patience and the right strategies, it is possible to make this transition smoother.
Recognizing Readiness
Before embarking on the weaning journey, it’s essential to assess both your readiness and your child’s. The decision to stop breastfeeding should ideally come when both parties feel prepared. This emotional readiness can help ease the process, as abrupt changes may lead to resistance or distress for the child.
Gradual Reduction
One effective method for weaning is to gradually reduce the number of breastfeeding sessions. Start by eliminating one feeding at a time, preferably the least favorite session for your toddler. This gradual approach allows your child to adjust to the changes without feeling overwhelmed. For instance, if your toddler typically breastfeeds before bedtime, consider replacing that session with a story or cuddle time instead.
Introducing Alternatives
As you reduce breastfeeding, it’s crucial to introduce alternative sources of comfort and nutrition. Offer your toddler a variety of healthy snacks and drinks, such as water or milk in a cup, to replace the breastfeeding sessions. This not only helps satisfy their hunger but also provides a new routine that can distract them from the desire to breastfeed.
Creating New Routines
Establishing new routines can significantly aid in the weaning process. Incorporate activities that your toddler enjoys, such as playing games, reading books, or engaging in arts and crafts. These distractions can help shift their focus away from breastfeeding and create positive associations with other forms of comfort and bonding.
Communicating Changes
At 19 months, toddlers can understand simple explanations. Use age-appropriate language to explain that breastfeeding is coming to an end. You might say something like, “You’re getting so big, and soon you’ll be drinking from a cup like a big kid!” This helps them feel involved in the process and can reduce feelings of loss.
Handling Emotional Responses
It’s natural for toddlers to express their feelings during this transition. Be prepared for potential tantrums or protests. Respond with empathy and reassurance, letting them know that you are still there for them, even if breastfeeding is no longer part of your routine. Comfort them with hugs, cuddles, and verbal affirmations to help them feel secure.
Seeking Support
Finally, don’t hesitate to seek support from family, friends, or parenting groups. Sharing your experiences and challenges can provide emotional relief and practical advice. Many parents have navigated this journey and can offer insights that may resonate with your situation.
Conclusion
Weaning a 19-month-old from breastfeeding is a process that requires patience, understanding, and creativity. By gradually reducing breastfeeding sessions, introducing alternatives, and maintaining open communication, you can help your toddler transition smoothly while preserving the bond you share. Remember, every child is different, so be flexible and adapt your approach as needed.

Why does my 19 month old want to nurse constantly?

Some toddlers still want to nurse “all the time.” If that works for you, that’s great (all children do eventually taper off on their own!). But if you need some space between feedings, that’s OK too. Some parents only nurse at nap time and nighttime. Others only do so at other set times each day.

How often should a 19 month old breastfeed?

Once or twice a day breastfeeding sessions can continue for months and even years, depending upon the child and mom. Toddlers breastfeed for comfort, in addition to nutrition. Breastfeeding can work wonders when baby is hurt, sad, upset (nursing is a great tantrum-tamer), or sick.

Can I stop breastfeeding at 19 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.

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.”

Why is my toddler suddenly obsessed with breastfeeding?

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. So your toddler may want to nurse a lot sometimes. Other times, they may only nurse a few times a day. This is normal.

How to tell toddler no to breastfeeding?

It is okay to “reject her”. Just say, “I don’t have milk”. Offer her some other foods that her mother approves of or a sippy cup if she takes cups now and then or offer her an interesting toy. Communicate that you can play with her, but say “no nurse” or whatever word she used for nursing.

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.

How do I get my 19 month old to stop breastfeeding?

Gradually reduce the number of breastfeeding sessions. Start by dropping one feed at a time, perhaps beginning with daytime feeds before tackling bedtime or morning feeds. Don’t offer the breast at routine times, but when starting the weaning process, don’t refuse when asked.

What to do if 2.5 year old refuses milk?

Make a fruity “milkshake.” Try adding pureed fruit like strawberries to their milk as a fun option. The fruit will naturally add color and flavor to make it extra special. Get a special cup. Your toddler might be more willing to try milk from their cup if they’re excited about it.

Can you stop breastfeeding cold turkey?

Don’t stop breastfeeding cold turkey, if you can help it. Experts say that an abrupt end to your breastfeeding relationship can be traumatic for your child. They may become anxious or fearful, have regressions (in sleep habits, for example), and/or tantrums as a result. An abrupt approach isn’t good for you, either.