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The Nursing Baby - Q&A

One mother asks:
I have a one year old and she still nurses about 6 - 7 times a day. I want to nurse as long as she wants BUT I want some freedom in the evenings. She goes to sleep when I nurse her at 8:00 but then wakes around 12:00 for another feeding. She also sleeps in my bed.
I really want to be able to have a sitter once in a while so my husbamd and I can go out together. This is the main reason I want to wean her 12:00 feeding. I am also thinking that a transition to the crib now is the only way I could have a sitter get her to bed.

Any suggestions? I need a break!!

Dear Mother,

Do you have someone trusted to babysit? Why not try going out and see how your baby reacts to someone else taking care of her?

It is true that some breastfed babies will simply refuse to go to sleep for anyone but mom, but a surprising number of them will relax with a well known caregiver and fall asleep, and be content with cup of breastmilk given later if they wake up.

Why not try a short outing? I think you will be surprised by how well it goes, and if does go well, you'll be set for taking your husband out on a great date!

Keep in mind that in the more "traditional" cultures, babies are rarely separated from mom their first 9-12 months, and of course, always sleep with mom and dad. But once they are toddling, they are often left with another trusted mother with her own young children for short separations. In other words, just because we breastfeed past infancy does not mean that our babies are any more infantile than a formula fed baby. Studies even show breastfed toddlers end up doing better socially in kindergarten. Trust your instincts on what is best for YOUR toddler.

These tips are not intended to be medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider if you have questions.

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