Having made the decision to continue nursing my three children into their toddler years, I encountered a mix of reactions from those around me. However, I have no regrets about this journey.
Why We Opted for Extended Breastfeeding
When I first became pregnant with my eldest, I did some research on breastfeeding benefits and recognized it was something I wished to pursue. My family was supportive; however, as my children grew, that support sometimes felt less enthusiastic. I breastfed my kids for 17, 19, and 21 months respectively. Despite the occasional judgmental glance, this experience taught me invaluable lessons about my strengths as a mother, from resilience to deepening my connection with my children.
Initially, I hadn’t planned on breastfeeding my first child for so long. Lacking familiarity with breastfeeding practices, I didn’t recall whether my younger cousins were bottle-fed or breastfed. Regardless, I came to appreciate the profound bond that extended nursing fostered.
Nursing a Toddler: What It’s Like
Breastfeeding a toddler is a unique experience. It’s not just about nutrition; it’s also about comfort and connection. Toddlers have their own personalities, and breastfeeding becomes a shared ritual that brings us closer. Each nursing session feels like a moment suspended in time, where we connect in a way that words often fail to express.
Reactions to My Decision
Though I faced skepticism from some peers, the joy and fulfillment I experienced outweighed any negativity. It was empowering to stand by my choices, knowing that I was providing my children with love and nourishment.
Knowing When It’s Time to Move On
Eventually, I recognized when our extended breastfeeding journey was coming to an end. Each child transitioned at their own pace, and I learned to trust that intuition.
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In summary, my experience with extended breastfeeding was nothing short of transformative. It strengthened my bond with my children and taught me about my own resilience.