Sarah and Maria talk about how nursing may feel around this age and stage. This milestone is often deeply connected to breastfeeding goals, expectations and the context within which we are parenting. We reflect on our own inner voice and the way we speak to ourselves about what’s ‘right’, what’s ‘enough’, or what we ‘should’ be doing and how this inner voice shapes our behaviour and may conflict with the external expectations.

When we are exhausted, touched out, or just need time to eat a meal in peace, the solution given to us is to stop breastfeeding. As if our needs can only be met if we are no longer breastfeeding. Our needs matter and we should not have to choose between meeting our children’s needs and our own.

La Leche League philosophy values the unique relationship between mother and baby – that in the early years, a baby’s need to be with their mother is as basic as their need for food.

What does it actually mean when we say we feel guilty and where do those feelings come from?

How can we balance the needs of a breastfeeding toddler with our own wellbeing needs and other responsibilities? How do we approach weaning from breastfeeding if we are ready before the child is.

A holistic model of support offered by LLL is discussed and the listeners are encouraged to reach out to LLLGB if breastfeeding support and information is needed.

LLLGB is a charity that offers mother to mother and parent to parent support for breastfeeding and chestfeeding. The charity was founded by seven mothers in 1956 and since then has accumulated a wealth of knowledge that is now supported by the latest scientific evidence and research.

Episode Notes:

For breastfeeding support and information please visit: www.laleche.org.uk

https://laleche.org.uk/thinking-of-weaning/

https://laleche.org.uk/after-weaning-what-next/

https://laleche.org.uk/breastfeeding-beyond-infancy/

https://laleche.org.uk/breastfeeding-beyond-a-year/

https://laleche.org.uk/breastfeeding-ends-suddenly/

https://laleche.org.uk/still-nursing/

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5EfJddj7oVOxW5kPqVVUTf?si=_w7oA4FgRFW8SBNCH3QzTA

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1eI8gV23ahVcFXdmqXvdQu?si=McEgJhDRTU2XyT_px53GDA