How to stop breastfeeding a 20 month old?

Understanding the Weaning Process
Weaning a 20-month-old from breastfeeding can be a significant transition for both mother and child. At this age, toddlers are often more aware of their surroundings and can express their needs and desires more clearly. This makes the process of stopping breastfeeding not just a physical change but also an emotional journey for both parties involved.
Recognizing Readiness
The decision to stop breastfeeding is deeply personal and can be influenced by various factors, including the mother’s comfort level, the child’s readiness, and lifestyle changes. It’s essential to assess whether both you and your child are ready for this transition. Signs of readiness in your toddler may include a decreased interest in breastfeeding, a desire for more solid foods, or an ability to communicate their needs more effectively.
Gradual Weaning Techniques
Experts recommend a gradual approach to weaning, which can help ease the transition. This method allows your child to adjust to the change without feeling deprived. Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Reduce Frequency: Start by cutting back on the number of breastfeeding sessions. You might choose to eliminate one session at a time, beginning with the least favorite feeding for your child. This gradual reduction can help minimize discomfort for both you and your toddler.
2. Substitute with Other Comforts: As you reduce breastfeeding, offer other forms of comfort. This could include cuddling, reading a book together, or engaging in playtime. Providing alternative sources of comfort can help your child feel secure during this transition.
3. Introduce Solid Foods: At 20 months, your toddler should be eating a variety of solid foods. Ensure that they are getting enough nutrition from meals and snacks, which can help them feel less reliant on breastfeeding.
4. Create New Routines: Establishing new routines can help distract your child from the desire to breastfeed. For instance, if your child typically breastfeeds before bed, consider replacing that session with a storytime or a special bedtime ritual.
5. Be Patient and Consistent: Weaning can be an emotional process, and it’s important to be patient. Your child may protest or ask for breastfeeding, especially if they are used to it as a source of comfort. Consistency in your approach will help them understand that the breastfeeding phase is coming to an end.
Emotional Considerations
Both you and your child may experience a range of emotions during this process. It’s normal to feel sadness or guilt about stopping breastfeeding, especially if it has been a significant part of your bonding experience. Acknowledge these feelings and allow yourself to grieve the end of this chapter while also celebrating the growth and independence of your child.
Conclusion
Weaning a 20-month-old from breastfeeding is a journey that requires sensitivity, patience, and understanding. By recognizing readiness, employing gradual techniques, and addressing emotional needs, you can navigate this transition smoothly. Remember, every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Trust your instincts and prioritize the emotional well-being of both you and your child during this significant change.

Is it okay to 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.

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.”

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 to put a 2 year old to sleep without breastfeeding?

So it’s important not to take away the other comforts that they are used to whilst you try to night wean. Co-sleeping, bed-sharing, cuddles, using a comforter like a toy. These can help the transition away from relying on the breast to settle back to sleep. Find other ways to settle your toddler at night.

How to stop breastfeeding for a 2 year old baby 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 percentage of moms breastfeed for 2 years?

While 71% of women continue to breastfeed their infant for at least one year, by two years of age, breastfeeding rates decline to 45%.

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.

Why is my toddler obsessed with breastfeeding?

Toddlers have a huge world to explore, and breastfeeding provides them (and their parents!) with some quiet time in their busy, waking hours. Often, breastfeeding serves as a “home base.” It can help toddlers feel more secure while they stretch their new-found independence.

How can I get my 20 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.

Why does my 20 month old want to breastfeed constantly?

Teething, separation anxiety, and developmental milestones are all possible causes of this behavior. Breastfeeding gives emotional support and soothes them during these adjustments. It’s also a familiar pattern, and they may nurse more when babies are sick or experiencing a growth spurt.