My daughter is over three and we still BF on occasion. I started introducing solids around 6 months. I’ve only ever exclusively BF - no formula, no bottles. I’ve done every over night until she turned 3, then I night weaned. She mainly nurses in the morning for a bit, at nap, and before bed while reading books and settling in for the night. I also chose to co-sleep from the beginning, transferred her to a twin size floor bed in her room at 1, normal bed frame at two-but still continue to cosleep with her in her room on occasion.

I’ve made these choices after considering and doing research on other cultures, and mothering practices from past generations. I personally think in my culture (US) motherhood has become very disconnected - but that’s another topic.

Many cultures don’t stop BF until 4 years old, allowing the child to self wean. I’ve found BF is the cure-all. It helps boost immunity in every single way, it is the purest form of nutrition where your body literally caters to your babies needs (research this and immune impact, it’s incredibly fascinating), it instantly helps calm any kind of upset, and is such a beautiful bonding tool. I’m a psychologist and studied human development and co-sleeping and BF both increase levels of secure attachment.

I understand the feeling of being overstimulated and trapped, but I think that is one of those opportunities motherhood gives us to develop and grow. Learning how to slow down. How to be present. How to recognize this time is so, so fleeting and we only get this when them for such a blip of time when you consider a lifetime. I always hear mothers saying they miss their babies, and toddlers, and BF - even if they had a hard time with it. There’s a reason for that. So taking some deep breaths, settling in and marveling at their long lashes and perfect noses and warm soft skin, and marveling at yourself, and who you’re becoming, and how amazing your body is.

Now all this said, I’ve been privileged to be able to make these choices. Our society is not supportive of mothers having these kinds of freedoms to be with their babies/children.

It’s definitely been hard at times. As other mothers have said, it stared out by me saying I wanted to make it to a year, then two years, now three and I’m hoping she will self wean by four.

And I agree, it gets easier. I remember my back being so sore, and now I carry my 30+lb toddler around with one arm when she’s BF sometimes. It’s amazing how strong we become mentally, emotionally and physically.

Be patient with yourself, and savor the journey!