How to Wean an Underweight Toddler

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding babies until 12 months, while the World Health Organization encourages breastfeeding until age two. In addition to protecting your child from a wealth of infections and illnesses, many studies support the idea that breastfed children have intellectual and developmental advantages. If your toddler is refusing nutritional sources outside the breast, however, he may become underweight. At this point, your child's pediatrician might encourage you to begin the weaning process.

Instructions

1




Offer your child a cup in place of a feeding.

Approach it gradually, both for your sake and your child's. Going cold turkey can cause you physical discomfort and put emotional stress on your toddler. Try replacing one breastfeeding session a day with a cup of milk or water. After a few days, replace another feeding. Continue this process, until you have eliminated all feedings.

2




Not all children like the taste of cow's milk when it is first offered.

If your child refuses to drink any type of milk except yours, try mixing some pumped breast milk with cow's milk in a cup. Start with a lot of breast milk and just a little cow's milk. Gradually decrease the amount of breast milk you're giving her, until cow's milk is the only liquid in the cup.

3




Give your child lots of extra attention while you wean.

Your child will likely miss the physical contact and comfort that comes with nursing. Be sure to spend lots of extra time cuddling, reading, and giving lots of hugs and kisses. He might be especially clingy during this time, so be sure to respond to his needs and give him lots of reassurance.

4




If your child is particularly strong willed, try garlic oil.

If your child is resistant to your gentle weaning attempts, try brushing your nipples with garlic oil a few times a day. Your child will likely not want to nurse once he tastes the garlic oil, and after a few days of attempting, will happily take milk from a cup.