Breastfeeding makes mothering a toddler easier.
Little humans are difficult to raise. That precious growing brain demands lots of stimulation, more than one or 2 adults can provide. This is the reason for the statement, “It takes a village to raise a child”. Today’s news features a well-written and accurate article about breastfeeding toddlers http://www.breastfeedinginc.ca/content.php?pagename=doc-BT. In this article, the authors discuss immune system benefits, foundations for independence, and the joys of a fun relationship. While all these things are true, I remember more about nursing a toddler.
Toddlers are sometimes infuriating as they are curious about everything. As their physical capabilities develop, their desire to explore takes them into all sorts of situations; some are funny, some are annoying, and others are outright dangerous. When my toddler climbed up onto the ladder back chair that promptly tipped over with a crash, she fell with it, got hurt and started screaming. What a blessing it was to gather her into my arms and nurse her. She instantly stopped crying, the analgesic effect of breastfeeding took effect, and she touched base with her source of safety in the world. A few minutes in my arms, and she was ready to conquer the world again.
Next time you are in the mall, watch a mother try to comfort an upset toddler. She will jiggle the stroller, offer food or drink,use a pacifier, or wave a toy in front of the toddler’s face. She may take the toddler out of the stroller and give a hug. She is working hard to calm her infant. Contrast that with the instant calm and silence of a baby going to breast.
Sometimes, I became very annoyed, even angry, with my toddler. I wanted to do what I needed to do at that moment; I did not want to deal with questions or a flat refusal or a battle. I found age 3 to much more challenging than age 2, at least with my girls, who seemed to be 3 going on 30 at times, with their strong sense of self and logic. In those cases, breastfeeding calmed ME, and reminded us both of the love in and the fundamental comfort of our relationship. How do mothers calm themselves when they get angry with their toddlers when they aren’t breastfeeding? I imagine that would take some work too.
When complete weaning occurs, both mother and baby have to find new ways to relate to each other. I remember missing the ease of breastfeeding when my older children and I encountered bumps in the road. That unique relationship is worth preserving. Breastfeeding makes mothering easier; the longer the relationship lasts, the easier it becomes. I wish this for all mothers.
