Tova goes cold turkey

Zadie is starting to get to that age when people like to ask if she is still breastfeeding. Their reaction to my response is generally one of awe, often followed by stories of how even six months of breastfeeding felt like too much. And then when they ask how much longer I expect to breastfeed Zadie, they look slightly appalled when I let them know my nearly four year old is still breastfeeding. I know this is not information that I need to offer but I do simply because of the shock factor. Why should breastfeeding a toddler be taboo? And why do taboos have to be such secretive things? Breastfeeding a three year old is in no way outrageous and if more people were open about it it would help normalise a very natural human function. I am also not sure why it is socially indicated to be openly repulsed by a three year old breastfeeding. The idea of offering a baby factory-made powdered cow milk with additives mixed with water in a plastic bottle is repulsive to me but I would never say that to a mother using formula. In fact, I apologise profusely if that just offended anyone. I am so proud of my body that it can provide nutrition and comfort to my children. And according to Tova, breastmilk is better than candy.

So how do you wean a child from a substance that is better than candy? I have gently been encouraging Tova that she was ready to move on, with little success. She will do just about anything for candy and this is better than candy. I knew even if I was pushing her to wean, I wanted her to feel it was her decision to stop breastfeeding...but somehow, even though my bribes were getting bigger and better, she stood firm. What could be better than better than candy? What finally worked was offering a bonus bedtime story every night (getting more than Sophia of anything is very appealing these days) and a gymnastics leotard. It wasn't easy for her but she persevered and is now the proud owner of the shiniest, spangliest leotard we could find. If only adult addictions could be bribed away with promise of books and shiny clothing! Tova, it has been a wonderful breastfeeding journey. In the spirit of breaking down silly taboos I am already plotting the fun and celebrations we will have when you get your period. 

The weaning leotard 

"Tova, make a face like you just saw Papa walk by"

Celebration cake