© edenpictures (Flickr) Nurse
© edenpictures (Flickr)
There are only a handful of women who openly still breastfeed their children up to five and six years old and some older. To many, this is far too long. Generally, six months to a year is the common period of time in which many mothers breastfeed their children. Breastfeeding is strongly encouraged during the recommended period of time to ensure that your baby receives all nutrients and help with growth development.
Many women believe that breastfeeding beyond the six month mark will create a continuing barrier against ailments and illness from harming their children. There is not right or wrong answer to the question of
how long you should or should not breastfeed your child.
The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommends the exclusive feeding of breast milk through 6 months of age with no milk substitutions. If you breast feed longer than six months, you will continue to provide the nutrients that your child has received from birth.
It is important to remember that you must keep yourself in great health throughout the process of nursing your child. Do what you feel is right in terms of the length of time that you choose to breastfeed your baby. This is a gift of nutrition you are bestowing upon your children.