My baby is 15 months and is still nursing. I am ready to wean him but he isn’t ready. Any suggestions?

I am a proponent of breastfeeding as long as possible to benefit both baby and mother. Deciding when to wean is a personal choice that must be made based on what is best for both of you.

Weaning is a unique process for each nursing mom; there is not one right way to wean your baby. When you are ready, here are a few tips:

1. Don't offer, don't refuse. If your baby is distracted during the time he usually nurses, let him be. However, if he is fussing to nurse then you should go ahead and breastfeed him.

2.  Same milk, different source. You may want to consider replacing your baby’s nursing session by feeding him a sippy cup of breast milk. He will still receive the benefits of breast milk while gradually reducing his desire to nurse.

3.  Switch up his routine. Typically, babies breastfeed before naptime and bedtime. By having someone else, such as daddy, grandparents or older siblings, partake in your baby’s sleep routine, he will gradually stop associating this time with nursing.

4. Distract him.  During the times he usually nurses, go for a walk, a ride in the car, or offer him a snack to take his mind off of nursing.

The key to weaning is patience and finding the method that works best for you both.

Good luck!

Amy

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