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Encouraging words for nursing a toddler.
STILL IN BUSINESS By Roxanna Ward
If I had a dime for everytime someone shrieked in disbelief, "You're still nursing him!", I'd be rich. It has become so common that I want to have a t-shirt made that says "Still in Business" across my chest. Nursing a toddler is amazing. Although it may not have been my initial objective. It is where we are now.
Many believe that mothers set a time table for breastfeeding their children. That may or may not be true. A goal to nurse your baby for six months, one year or however long you choose is helpful to get you through those inevitable rough times in the beginning. But don’t limit yourself. You’ll find the longer you nurse, the easier it becomes. Certainly your child will be grateful if you continue into toddlerhood.
Breastfeeding your child is the ultimate way to fulfill your child’s needs. As your child grows, his needs can continue to be met at your breast. Meeting your child’s needs is not the only benefit to nursing a toddler. Your milk is continuing to give your child vitamins, enzymes and immunities. This can drastically cut down on illnesses. If your toddler does get sick, breastfeeding can help him through it like no other devise or medication can. It if is an upset tummy, mommies milk can help keep him from becoming dehydrated, as it may be the only think he can keep on his stomach. Nursing can be a marvelous way to soothe or calm an upset toddler. Whether it be from a injury or other unpleasant situation, frustration can be relieved at mommies breast. As a matter of fact, nursing soothes disappointment so well that many parents find that the terrible second year is not as bad afterall.
Since your child is now developing his vocabulary, you might want to give him a useful term to use when he wants to nurse. This way when you are in public, it will be easy for him to convey his needs to you without whining. Many children come up with their own words for it. Whatever he chooses, don’t let the term embarrass you or he may feel what he is asking for is wrong.
Another benefit of an aging nursling, it the application of patience. As your child grows older, he will learn that right now while you are paying for lunch, may not be the time to nurse. Instead offer him a snack or drink to “tye” him over until he is able to settle down at your breast. Tell him that you’ll nurse as soon as you get to ... where ever you are going to be able to nurse at next.
Whether you choose to nurse for an obvious amount of time, or wing it as you go, make sure you do what is right for you and your child. Don’t let societies contrary thoughts about nursing a toddler sway you to quit earlier than you are ready. Follow your heart and do what you and your child need.
About the Author
Roxanna Ward, Community leader and staff writer for http://www.BabyUniversity.com, lives in Georgia with her husband, Stan and her three children, Kirstie-Raie, Chase and Kale. As a published freelance writer and breastfeeding advocate, the focus of her writing is concentrated on sharing household tips, her experience with her frugal lifestyle which is compensated by being able to afford to be a stay-at-home mom, as well as the phenomenal process of breastfeeding, child rearing related issues and romantic relationships. She is also currently the Editor of three newsletters: What's New at BabyU?, Intimate Encounters and At Home with Baby University. Roxanna can be contacted at Roxanna30135@aol.com
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