It is sad but true; breastfeeding past one year is no longer the norm in our culture.  Those who do are constantly questioned: “When will you be weaning?”  “He doesn’t take a bottle yet?” “Can’t she have solid food by now?” “You’re still breastfeeding??” “Only a few more months of that…” Mother’s breastfeeding into the first and second year are almost always faced with someone who wants to share his or her opinion.

The amount of unsolicited advice a breastfeeding mother will receive is amusing.  We leave the house, armed with information and retorts.  We try to educate, and to share the joy of nursing.  Gradually we will spread the good news; we are doing the best for our babies! 

The American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) says, "Breastfeeding should be continued for at least the first year of life and beyond for as long as mutually desired by mother and child... Increased duration of breastfeeding confers significant health and developmental benefits for the child and the mother... There is no upper limit to the duration of breastfeeding and no evidence of psychologic or developmental harm from breastfeeding into the third year of life or longer." (AAP 2005)” Why stop when there are obviously so many benefits?  The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends two years of breastfeeding, at least. 

When asked why we are still Breastfeeding, maybe we should ask: “Why should we stop?”   Our babies are happy, and a happy baby makes a happy mama!  Congratulations to all of us that have made it past one year.  We have reason to be proud.

Happy Easter to all of your little ones!  Do you want to share pictures of your egg hunts?  E-Mail us and we’ll put them up on the site!

We now have Breastfeeding milestone graphics!  You can find them here.  Feel free to use them on your websites, or in your signatures.  Show off your achievements!