Beware of the Holiday Weaning

The holidays are an extremely busy, and at times, stressful time of year. Most people are running around shopping, cooking, baking, partying, and doing other holiday errands that must be done. For a nursing mom, this chaos can wreak havoc on her nursing schedule.

Yup, one minute you are running to the mall, to the bank, to the holiday party, and the next you realize that your little nursling has not nursed all day. Or, at times, you even realize that your little one has weaned.

Now, if you are ready to wean your child, the holiday season might be the best time to start. However, if you and your child are not ready to end the nursing relationship, then this accidental weaning can be heart wrenching.

Nursing moms have to remember to take time to make sure that they are meeting the needs of their nursling. It is so tempting to put it off during this busy time, but don't. "Just let me wrap one more present" or "Just let me go pick up one more gift" often begins the holiday weaning. Stop. Sit down with your nursling and take the time to nurse. Even if your child isn't asking to nurse, offer it anyway. It might be they themselves are feeling overwhelmed and just aren't thinking to ask.

If anything, ensuring that you are stopping to nurse your child during this busy time of year will force you to relax as well, and perhaps enjoy the holiday season a little more.

Check out this great article for more tips for a nursing mom during the busy holiday season.

Beware of the Holiday Weaning