Toddler Activities

Sudden weaning from the breast at a year might not be as physically uncomfortable fore the nursing mother as earlier weaning would have been. Since a toddler takes in more solids, milk production slows considerably at this time, making engorgement a less likely side effect. Still, gradual weaning generally works best for both members of most nursing teams because it allows mother and child time to adjust to the end of this very special era.

The adjustment will also be easier if you make a concerted effort to give your toddler extra love and attention during weaning. Replace the time you’ve spent together nursing with other one-on-one activities. Don’t show disapproval if your toddler replaces the comfort habit (such as thumb-sucking) or comfort object (such as a blanket or stuffed animal). Children need all the support they can get at this stage.

Weaning now may be relatively easy (if your and your baby are both ready for the step) or relatively difficult (if you’re both still strongly attached to nursing). In either case, the following guidelines will help:

Step One. Be sure your toddler can drink fairly well from a cup

Step Two. Choose the time carefully. Don’t begin weaning if your toddler’s going through other major changes (meeting a new baby-sitter, starting day care, gaining a new sibling) or when he or she is sick or otherwise out of sorts. Wait until all is relatively calm in your toddler's life before beginning.

Step Three. Save the breast for the last (except at bedtime). When your child wakes up in the morning or from a nap or is hungry for a meal, offer a beverage from a cup, or a snack, or a meal of solid food first. When the edge is off the appetite, if your toddler still clamors for the breast, oblige. Gradually, milk intake will decrease, which in turn reduce your milk supply, making you more comfortable as you wean.