Breastfeeding: A Gift for Both Mother and Child
Breastfeeding is more than just a way to feed your baby, it’s a powerful gift. Not only does it nurture your child’s development, but research shows that for every year a child is breastfed, both mother and baby enjoy up to a 25% reduced risk of developing various forms of cancer. In today’s world, where many factors (including the quality of our food) impact our health, the benefits of breastfeeding become even more significant. Instead of merely celebrating these benefits, it’s also important to discuss the potential risks of not breastfeeding, which can set the stage for serious health concerns over time.
The Journey Toward Night Weaning
Even though breastfeeding has so many long-term benefits, including a lower risk of diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure, the process of weaning is a natural progression for both you and your child. Night weaning, in particular, is a gentle transition designed to help both parent and child get more restful sleep while still preserving the daytime bonding and nourishment that breastmilk offers.
When and Why to Begin
Recognize the Signs:
When your baby reaches around 16 to 20 months, they may begin to understand more about routines and boundaries. This is often a good time to start preparing for night weaning.
Prepare Emotionally:
Acknowledge that while breastfeeding is a precious gift, there comes a point when both you and your baby benefit from a more predictable sleep pattern. Explain gently that just as adults need sleep to grow and recharge, babies do too.
Set the Stage:
Create a bedtime routine that doesn’t rely solely on feeding. For example, introduce a story, cuddle time, or brushing teeth together as part of the night ritual.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Transition
Communicate Clearly:
Even if your little one may not grasp every detail, let them know that “when it gets dark, mommy’s milk is also resting.” Use simple language like, “Now you’re growing big with teeth and words, and mommy and daddy need sleep too.”
Incorporate Visual Memories:
Consider creating a photo book that captures your breastfeeding journey—from the days of your newborn’s first feed to the milestones of growth. This not only celebrates the journey but also provides a gentle narrative to introduce change and goes into your child’s subconscious when he/she is able to process and make sense of it.
Maintain Consistency:
Decide in advance how you’ll handle the transition. If you plan to stop nighttime feeds, make sure everyone involved (including your partner) is on board so that the new routine is consistently followed.
A Personal Journey: A Client’s Night Weaning Story
Here’s a real-life example from a client I recently coached:
My son who is 2 years old now has very low sleep needs and has been like that since he was born so we really battled with sleep/very litte sleep for a long time. Not a lot of sleep during the day and lots of night wakings. Night wakings got more regular, especially when his separation anxiety peaked around 16-18 months. Both my husband and I were sleep deprived and not in a good emotional space (especially me as I have very high sleep needs) and we just came to the point where we felt ready and felt our son was ready developmentally, to start night weaning.
We did it over the December holidays a few weeks before he turned 2 years old but I know other moms who successfully weaned at a younger age. My approach was to “prepare” him before we did it so I started telling him a story about when he would be breastfed during the day that from “tomorrow” we will only have milk when the sun shines because we all, including mommy’s milk must sleep and rest in the evening when it is dark. I continued with this “story” for about a week before we started setting the boundaries at night.
First night went much better as we anticipated, when he woke up I would just hold space for him, comfort him and tell him that “remember what mommy told you that when it is dark we all needs to sleep, mommy’s milk is also sleeping so you can’t have any now but when you wake up tomorrow morning and the sun is out then you can have some.” I also said that if he is thirsty then he can have some water and always keep water close which also helped. Dad also supported me and would take him when he wanted his dad but it was so amazing how I was able to comfort him without my boobs as I always felt that was all I was good for. I felt empowered in a way knowing that I can set boundaries and still provide comfort and a safe space without feeding. We don’t co-sleep every night but there have been nights where he has woken up and I have stayed with him and slept next to him without him waking/asking for milk.
It took some time but we just stuck to it and it just “clicked”, now he would say to me during the day that he does not drink milk anymore at night so it is also something he understands. He did however make up for what he missed drinking at night during the day in the 10 days it took to get him where he is now, but we were still on holiday and not in our regular rhythm so I just rolled with it. I still feed to sleep for his nap and at bedtime and he sleeps through most nights✨
I never ever thought I would be able to get it “right” but we did and it has made a massive difference in all of our emotional states. I also realised he was not getting enough rest so he would be so grumpy during the day and now he is much happier🩵
Good luck to all the sleep deprived mamas, I am rooting for you🙌🏼 It does get better and you all are doing an amazing job.
This story highlights that every child is unique. While some may adjust quickly, others might need a longer period of transition. The key is to remain patient, consistent, and attuned to your child’s needs, always ensuring that everyone feels supported through the change.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding is a remarkable journey that extends far beyond physical nourishment. It lays the foundation for lifelong health benefits, not only for your child but for you as well. Yet, as your child grows, transitioning into night weaning can be a critical step towards establishing healthy sleep habits. With thoughtful preparation, clear communication, and plenty of love, you can make this transition a smooth and empowering experience for your entire family.
Remember, every family’s journey is unique. If you’re considering night weaning, trust your instincts, plan ahead, and know that the benefits, both immediate and long-term, are well worth the effort.