In the realm of extended breastfeeding, I’ve encountered a wide array of opinions. Some say, “Stop nursing once he can ask for it,” while others declare, “It’s just for the mom’s benefit beyond a certain age.” I’ve heard it all: “He’ll never be independent,” or “Once he has teeth, it’s time to stop.” Comments can range from judgmental to outright harsh.
However, this post isn’t about debating those views. Instead, it’s a glimpse into my life with my son at 2 years and 3 months and the significance of nursing in our relationship.
Recently, I noticed something interesting. My son didn’t nurse as often as usual one day, and when he did finally latch on, I experienced that familiar leak from my other breast—a reminder of how our nursing journey has evolved. Gone are the days of constant leaking and milk stains. My breasts have changed; they are softer and less full. I can finally sleep on my stomach again and have retired my nursing bras. My body is gradually reclaiming itself.
Now, some nights, he simply seeks comfort without nursing. Other times, he opts for an afternoon snack instead of our usual nursing session on the couch. While it may take a while before he fully weans, the transition is subtly unfolding.
I treasure these moments we share while nursing and feel a bittersweet sadness as they evolve. Here are the reasons why I choose to continue breastfeeding:
- I nurse him because those big hazel eyes hold mine for what feels like an eternity on cozy, rainy afternoons.
- I nurse him because he’s at that adorable age where he curls his soft, cherubic body into my lap, playfully kicking his legs.
- I nurse him in part because I nursed his older brother, who is becoming more independent every day, leaving me nostalgic for those moments of closeness.
- I nurse him as a reminder of peaceful times spent watching my mother nurse my sibling, where everything felt slow and gentle.
- I nurse him because it gives me a reason to pause, to take a break and simply exist in the moment.
- I nurse him because when he says, “Milkies, please,” I can’t help but melt at his sweet politeness.
- I nurse him because I feel an overwhelming rush of joy thanks to the oxytocin released during our bonding time.
- I nurse him so we can linger in bed on leisurely weekend mornings or after his naps, savoring the quiet moments together.
- I nurse him because it brings ease to our routines—helping him sleep, calming tantrums, and creating moments of peace.
- I nurse him out of mutual desire—because I want to, and he wants to.
I understand that this time is fleeting; his need for nursing is temporary and will naturally fade with time.
While I don’t savor every single moment of nursing—especially during those late-night sessions when he playfully tugs at my lips and eyelids—I cherish the quiet closeness we share when he finally drifts off to sleep, his little body nestled against mine.
Not everyone feels the need to nurse their toddlers, preschoolers, or older children, and that’s perfectly fine. I recognize that extended breastfeeding might not align with everyone’s perception of parenting. However, it is absolutely normal and a natural continuation of a biological bond that began with infancy.
This is what feels right for us, as it does for many other families you might not expect, and that is why we continue to nurse.
This is our normal, our love, and our journey.
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In summary, my journey of nursing my toddler is filled with affection, connection, and the understanding that our time together like this is fleeting. This is our normal, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
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