What about weaning? Recognizing the emotional transition.

When I was pregnant I read books, articles and reviews on everything from parenting philosophies, to breastfeeding, to the “perfect” accessories to make life with my future little one a smooth transition. There was a lot of advice on preparing your child for transitions both physical and emotional when it came to eating, sleeping, time away from the primary caregiver, etc.... There was a lot of information on how to form a wonderful breastfeeding bond (which did not guarantee if would be easy), however the emotional implications of weaning when the time is right (different for everyone) for a child and mother and how to have an open dialogue about those emotions felt like a blank space. This is where the idea to create the illustrated children’s book Mama’s Milk Is All Gone began.

Like so many topics weaning is such an unique experience for every breastfeeding relationship. Though the idea of feeling mutually ready is the ideal, the reality tends to be more one sided. For some the Mom is not ready to let the relationship go and admit that their “baby” is not such a “baby” anymore. For others it may be the child who is suddenly craving more and more whether for physical or emotional reasons and Mom can no longer continue. There are times it may not be the “right” time and there may be an issue on either side that needs to be addressed, if that is the case and there is support out there in many forms through La Leche League, a skilled lactation consultant, a supportive pediatrician, friends, etc...

There are so many reasons that weaning happens, exhaustion, illness, schedule issues, growth, among many others. For some it is a smooth transition, for others it may be a struggle, much in the same way that beginning a breastfeeding relationship can be. No matter how your breastfeeding relationship comes to an end at some point most kids will want to talk about it. They are looking for reassurance of the bonds you share and the way those bonds are the same despite the fact that they may now be fulfilled in different ways. If your child nursed to sleep, they may still need you close to have that need for comfort fulfilled by a cuddle. Many children still ask questions about breastfeeding even years after their journey ends which is a great opportunity to help normalize the conversation at an early age. I hope that Mama’s Milk Is All Gone becomes a resource to help many families through their weaning journey and beyond.