Should you breastfeed a 7 year old?

The Debate on Extended Breastfeeding: Should You Breastfeed a 7-Year-Old?
The topic of breastfeeding often evokes strong emotions and diverse opinions, particularly when it comes to extended breastfeeding—feeding a child who is beyond the typical age range. In the case of a 7-year-old, the question becomes even more complex, intertwining cultural, emotional, and health-related dimensions.
Understanding Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous benefits, especially in the early years of a child’s life. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years and beyond. This guidance is grounded in the understanding that breast milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies that help infants develop a strong immune system.
Cultural Context
Cultural attitudes toward breastfeeding can significantly influence a mother’s decision to continue nursing beyond infancy. In some cultures, extended breastfeeding is seen as a natural practice, with children being breastfed until they are 5 or even 7 years old. In these contexts, breastfeeding is not just a source of nutrition but also a means of comfort and bonding between mother and child.
Conversely, in many Western societies, the prevailing norm tends to lean towards weaning children by the age of 1 or 2. In these cultures, breastfeeding a school-aged child may be regarded as unusual or even inappropriate. This divergence highlights the importance of cultural context when discussing extended breastfeeding.
Health Considerations
From a health perspective, breastfeeding a 7-year-old is generally considered safe. The nutritional value of breast milk diminishes as children grow and their dietary needs change, but it can still provide emotional comfort and a sense of security. Pediatricians often emphasize that as long as the child is receiving a balanced diet, extended breastfeeding poses no significant health risks.
However, concerns may arise regarding the emotional and psychological implications for both the mother and the child. Critics argue that prolonged breastfeeding may hinder a child’s independence or social development. They may also express worries about the potential for social stigma, particularly as the child approaches school age.
The Emotional Bond
One of the most compelling arguments in favor of extended breastfeeding is the emotional bond it fosters between mother and child. Many mothers who choose to breastfeed their older children cite the comforting role it plays in their relationship. For some, it serves as a way to provide reassurance and closeness during challenging times. This emotional connection can be particularly beneficial during transitions, such as starting school or experiencing family changes.
Conclusion: A Personal Choice
Ultimately, the decision to breastfeed a 7-year-old is deeply personal and varies from family to family. It is essential for parents to consider their own values, cultural norms, and the individual needs of their child. Open communication with healthcare providers can also aid in making an informed decision.
While breastfeeding a 7-year-old may not align with the practices of many, for some families, it is a natural extension of a nurturing relationship. As society continues to evolve, so too will the conversations surrounding breastfeeding, extending beyond just the question of age to embrace the diverse experiences of mothers and children around the world.

What is the oldest a child should breastfeed?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, and then breastfeeding in combination with solid foods until the age of 2 or beyond.

What is the longest age to breastfeed?

In the US, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life and to continue for at least 12 months5. But in other countries, the World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding up to the age of 2 or beyond6.

What age should you stop nursing a child?

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.

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.

At what age is breastfeeding no longer beneficial?

There are many professional associations that recommend breastfeeding beyond 1 year, but to date there is no evidence that extended breastfeeding is harmful in any way. There is currently no known age when breastmilk is considered to be nutritionally insignificant for a child.

At what age is it inappropriate to breastfeed?

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend continued breastfeeding along with introducing appropriate complementary foods for up to 2 years or longer.

Is it okay to breastfeed an older child?

Breast milk continues to provide good nutrition and immune protection to your child during the second year of life and beyond. It’s easy for your baby to digest, and doesn’t need to be purchased or prepared. Extended nursing also offers health benefits for the nursing parent.

Is 7 too old to breastfeed?

There is no upper limit to the duration of breastfeeding and no evidence of psychologic or developmental harm from breastfeeding into the third year of life or longer.

How to explain breastfeeding to a 7 year old?

You know, most people associate babies with bottles, so it’s natural for other kids to be curious when they see you breastfeeding. If they ask about it, simply explain to them that you’re nursing the baby and that it’s how we feed and nurture babies.

What is the longest a mother has breastfed?

Percent of mothers who breastfed were as follows: never (28.6%), 6 weeks (50.3%), 6 months (26.4%), 9 months (16.6%), 12 months (9.7%), 18 months (2.7%), 20 months (1%). We windsorized the 2% of mothers who reported breastfeeding longer than 24 months.