Breastfeeding

The wave of women who are now enjoying breastfeeding has led to the common practice of breastfeeding longer than a year because of the enjoyment experienced by toddler and mom. Breastfeeding through age two or longer has been encouraged by UNICEF because of the many benefits to mom and child. It is not unheard of for many moms to still be breastfeeding when the toddler reaches 3 or even 4 years of age.

Breast milk is still a nutritional value to a toddler because it still contains fats, proteins, and immunological factors that protect the child against infection and illness. Breast milk also contains factors that help the immune system to mature as well as to help the brain, abdominal organs and brain to develop and to mature better.

Toddlers are generally exposed to more infections and illnesses especially if they are in a daycare situation so the added benefits of being nursed during these years is wonderful. Not only does the toddler receive the protection from the breast milk but also the mom won’t have to take as many sick days because the toddler won’t be getting sick as often as others who are not being breastfed. Breastfeeding allows the toddler to fight off infections and to become immune to them naturally.

The toddler who has been breastfed receives the comfort he or she needs and also a sense of security from the breast that given the opportunity to wean naturally and when ready to do so will be able to feel as if the act of weaning is his or her idea and will instill a sense of pride that encourages growth and independence.

The toddler also receives a huge benefit from breastfeeding that is an emotional one. The ability of the mom to demonstrate an act of love that gives comfort and security at the same time nourishment that fills the belly is a unique mix that children respond to and remember. This reinforces the bond between child and mom that will be there throughout the child's life.

Life as a toddler can be filled with new experiences, new challenges and yes, new hurts too and what a wonderful gift Mom gives in the form of breastfeeding. The comfort and security of the breast is familiar warmth in a world that is rapidly changing.


Breastfeeding can be a "forced" relaxing break for toddler and Mom in a day that is otherwise hectic.

The benefits of breastfeeding the toddler are as bountiful as the benefits of breastfeeding your infant. The act is a selfless one in which the mom gives of herself so that her child can have nature’s nourishment and comfort for as long as the child wants or needs it.