Baby weaning is a process in which a child stops breastfeeding from their mother and moves to eating nothing but solid foods or a bottle. This process is eventual, and there is no set time table for when it should happen. This is especially true since most babies simply have to make up their mind on their own. Each is unique. Their needs both physically and emotionally are different. Since breastfeeding is much more than feedings, it is important to consider all sides of the process. When it comes to baby weaning, there are often many misconceptions. Here are three to keep in mind.
#1: 6 Months Is Time
One of the worst mistakes you can make is to assume that your child has to be breastfeeding weaned by the time they are six months. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that mothers continue to breastfeed their children until at least the age of one year old. Around the world, stopping breastfeeding prior to a child's second birthday is strange. It is really a decision that the child needs to make. Are they ready for the change? If not, they will let you know. It is impossible to force a child to breastfeed.
#2: Mothers Keep Children Breastfeeding Too Long
The fact is, there is no reason to stop breastfeeding early. Many children would like to remain breastfeeding for one reason or another and should be allowed to do so. They should be put onto solid foods by the age of six months, but they can supplement this with breastfeeding for several more years without a problem. Breast milk is highly nutritious throughout a child's first years. It can help protect their immune system and allows the body to develop properly.
#3: Breastfeeding Weaning Is Too Hard
The process of weaning a child from the breast is one that does take time. The amount of time it takes really depends on the child. If a child is reluctant to stop breastfeeding, there is likely a reason why this is happening. In this case, talk with the child's pediatrician and be sure to work with the child to understand why.
In many situations, people have misconception of why mothers choose to breastfeed for longer than one year. The bottom line is that there is nothing wrong with the process. It does not affect the development of a child negatively, but does foster a strong immune system.
