Posted by Christie Haskell on February 24, 2011 at 5:18 PM
When nursing a toddler is discussed, someone inevitably comments on how children shouldn't be "running up to you, lifting your shirt, and demanding to nurse." They're right. Well, they're right that the behavior isn't acceptable, but if they are suggesting that is reason to wean, they're wrong. It makes as little sense as weaning 4-month-old because she's biting. It's totally unrelated to nutrition.
What you do need to know, though, is that nurslings of any age need to be taught nursing manners. It's not an age or weaning issue when a child tries to get in your shirt in public, it's a disciplinary one.
Just like any discipline (discipline meaning "to teach," not punish), it's best if you start when they're young. You can hold the hand that's trying to twiddle the other nipple (a natural action that stimulates letdown) or lay an arm over your other breast. When your child's hand reaches to pull your hair, hold the hand so she doesn't pull to discourage that behavior. Giving your kiddo something to mess with that ISN'T YOU while they're nursing can often be a quick and easy solution, too.
Click here to read this article in it's entirety.
What you do need to know, though, is that nurslings of any age need to be taught nursing manners. It's not an age or weaning issue when a child tries to get in your shirt in public, it's a disciplinary one.
Just like any discipline (discipline meaning "to teach," not punish), it's best if you start when they're young. You can hold the hand that's trying to twiddle the other nipple (a natural action that stimulates letdown) or lay an arm over your other breast. When your child's hand reaches to pull your hair, hold the hand so she doesn't pull to discourage that behavior. Giving your kiddo something to mess with that ISN'T YOU while they're nursing can often be a quick and easy solution, too.
Click here to read this article in it's entirety.
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