All babies are different when it comes to the ages that they’re ready (or more willing to wean). Some may be easier to wean at 18 months, while others may not be ready to wean until 3 or 4. The best way to wean is to let your little one decide when they’re ready, especially since nursing is for more than food to them. Weaning well before your little one is ready can be very difficult. It’s very important that you have realistic expectations about your weaning journey.
It’s important to remember that even after stopping nursing, your baby will still need a lot of attention that he/she might have otherwise gotten by nursing.
How to comfort your little one while actively trying to wean:
Offer a lot of cuddles, attention, hugs/kisses, rocking, lying with them for naps, etc. While this may seem like it’s going to encourage more nursing, your little one needs something to replace the comfort and physical contact that has decreased as a result of less frequent nursing. Make time to focus on your little one. Find things to do with a baby that are all about him/her to distract them from not nursing. Don’t offer to nurse your little one but don’t refuse.
Let your little one decide, if they can’t be redirected with snacks, cuddles, one-on-one time, then let your baby nurse.
Don’t underestimate your child and to communicate with them about nursing, not nursing, etc.
How do you know if the weaning process is moving too quickly for your little one?
Watch your little one for stress. Separation anxiety, increased crying/tantrums/whining, more frequent waking at night, biting, new or increased attachment to a toy or blanket, thumb-sucking or use of a pacifier where there may not have been before, refusal to eat, new/increased withdrawal. If your little one is having a difficult time weaning, slow down. You don’t want to traumatize your child.
