Effective Weaning Methods for Toddlers

Weaning is a natural process that begins as soon a baby starts eating solid foods or taking a bottle of formula. While many babies wean before they reach 12 months, according to a 2008 study in "Pediatrics," 25.9 percent of babies still received some breast milk at 1 year. If your toddler still breastfeeds, but you feel that it's time for her to wean, finding ways to gently encourage her to give up nursing can bring this part of your relationship to a positive, loving end.

Don't Offer, Don't Refuse

Initiate weaning by no longer offering to breastfeed or reminding your child about regular nursing times. If your toddler asks to breastfeed, though, go ahead and let him nurse. This weaning method may take longer than other methods, since some toddlers who still need the comfort of breastfeeding may ask to nurse frequently. But it does allow your child to gently wean at his own pace and avoids the tantrums and tears that can result from deliberately limiting your child's breastfeeding sessions. Those toddlers who no longer need the comfort and security of breastfeeding may also quickly and happily wean.

Drop Feedings

Eliminate feedings one at a time, starting with the breastfeeding session to which your toddler is least attached. This allows your toddler time to adjust to weaning and gradually decreases your milk production, preventing uncomfortable engorgement. Distract your toddler during her normal breastfeeding time by playing a game, taking a walk or going to the park or the library. Offer her something to eat or drink 10 to 15 minutes before she usually breastfeeds. Increase the entertainment value of the substitute by offering a sandwich or pancakes cut in the shape of a favorite character, adding strawberry or chocolate syrup to her milk, or letting her help pour the milk into her cup.

Set Limits

Take advantage of your toddler's increasing verbal skills and use reasoning to set limits on when and where breastfeeding happens. Choose set times during the day when your toddler can breastfeed, rather than letting him nurse every time he tries to lift up your shirt. Explain that you no longer breastfeed while away from home or you only breastfeed before naps and bedtime. Limit the length of time your toddler breastfeeds. Allow him to breastfeed when he asks but only until you finish singing a song or count to 10.

Rewards

Older toddlers may respond to rewards for giving up breastfeeding. Offer your child a special treat, such as candy or chocolate milk, instead of breastfeeding. Use a sticker chart. Give her a sticker for each breastfeeding session she gives up and take her on a special outing when she has accumulated a certain number of stickers. Promise to buy your toddler a toy she desperately wants when she gives up breastfeeding. Plan a weaning party -- including a cake, presents and decorations -- to celebrate her successful weaning.