How to Wean and Settle An Infant Who Wants to Nurse to Sleep?

The process of weaning from nursing begins with the first supplemental feeding, from a bottle, or of solid food, according to Le Leche League International (LLLI). Weaning is indeed a process, and the nighttime nursing is often the last one for a nursling to quit. Weaning takes time and patience. No exact set of rules work for all mothers and babies, but general guidelines will help when learning how to wean and settle an infant who wants to nurse to sleep.

Instructions

How to Wean From the Nighttime Feeding.

1

Plan your weaning period if possible. Weaning "cold turkey," will probably leave your breasts painfully engorged, and you might develop a breast infection. LLLI states that the baby will probably fight the switch if done quickly. Shorten nursing periods and stop nursing while your baby is awake. Then put him to sleep.

2

Make a bedtime routine not centered around breastfeeding, when settling an infant who wants to nurse to sleep. Most often infants enjoy cuddling and talking as much as they enjoy the nutrition they gain from nursing. Create a new cuddle time, such as book reading or back rub. Keep his favorite blanket or stuffed animal nearby for extra soothing.

LLLI suggests talking to your child about weaning, because he may understand more than you think. Explain what is happening and reassure him with loving touches. Use an understanding tone if he fusses.

Continue to change the bedtime routine. Rock him to sleep in a different room than you normally nurse him in, or walk him instead of rocking. Allow him to rest his head on your breast instead of feeding.

3

Ask your partner, baby's grandparent or friend to pat and rock your baby to sleep if the change in routine is not working. Your baby can smell your milk and feel your breasts, and some babies will focus on nursing instead of relaxing. Return to putting your child to sleep after your milk dries and he becomes accustomed to not nursing. Keep your partner in charge of the bedtime routine if it works well and that will create a special time for them.

4

Do not hold him in your typical nursing hold if you must put your baby to sleep and he still fusses. Place his back to your stomach. Kiss his head, rub his legs and keep him warm with a blanket. This will comfort him while taking away reminders of nursing.

LLLI reminds mothers that "a lot of extra love and attention in other forms will be needed" during weaning. Spend extra time with him during the day so the transition to bedtime is smooth. Play a soothing CD in his room or sing to him. Weaning is a natural part of child development and it takes an adjustment period.