There are many different opinions about when and how a child should be weaned from the bottle or breast. Some pediatricians believe children should be weaned around 12 months. Other experts think breastfeeding may be good for children until much later. It is also true that many children are on bottles until they are three years old and even older. It is perhaps best to follow the child's lead and consider the needs in the family. Many mothers who work outside the home like to keep the first morning nursing well into the second year. Your breasts can make this adjustment as you drop the other feedings. As soon as a child can drink well with a cup, she can be weaned without losing nutrition. Many toddlers start weaning themselves by not taking the breast or not looking for a bottle.
Two things are important to think about when deciding when and how to wean your child. First, what does the breast or bottle mean to your child and how do you use it? Do you use the breast or bottle to soothe her, to keep her quiet, or to help her go to sleep? You may have to think of new ways to respond to your child. Second, are all the people who care for your child committed to weaning? You should all agree and believe it is the right thing to do. If not, it will be too easy to give in to your child if she protests and refuses a cup. If you have mixed feelings, it will be a struggle.
Tips for Successful Weaning
If you decide to wean, you may want to follow these helpful hints.
Adapted from Healthy Steps. Edited and Compiled by the Center for Promotion of Child Development Through Primary Care 2011