Breastfeeding my toddler is something I'm happy for people to see

Before my son was born, I was warned breastfeeding might not come easy, and that if it was something I really wanted to do, I may need support to make it happen.

So I made peace with the fact it might not be part of our story.

But we got lucky. Lane latched within minutes of being born, and 16 months later, we're still feeding on demand — many times during the day — and night.

(Emphasis on the many.)

In most Western circles, extended breastfeeding, also known as full-term breastfeeding, is considered anything past 12 months of age. It's something I wrote about in 2017.

At the time, my own misconceptions were challenged.

And I'm so grateful to the women who generously shared their stories and expertise, because that article is part of what has given me the confidence to keep feeding knowing it is the right thing for us.

I would like to acknowledge caregivers who either couldn't or chose not to breastfeed for whatever reason.

We're all icons.

Benefits of extended breastfeeding

I don't have to justify to anyone why I breastfeed my toddler, but I strongly believe we should all get more educated on the matter.

While the benefits are widely recognised by reputable medical organisations, there are people who have some catching up to do regarding their views on breastfeeding. 

The World Health Organisation recommends children be breastfed for two years and beyond.

Australia's National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recommends that breastfeeding continue once solids have been introduced for as long as mother and baby desire.

When weaning is infant led, it will usually take place between two and four years of age.

Anthropology professor Katherine Dettwyler found the minimum predicted age for natural weaning in humans is two-and-a-half years to seven years.

Breastfeeding your toddler can provide almost a third of their daily energy needs.

It reduces the risk of illnesses such as gastro in the child (and reduces cancer risk in mums).

It provides comfort. It's convenient. It creates opportunity for rest. It provides emotional security. 

The list goes on.

Australia's National Health Survey showed 50 per cent of children aged 12 months were receiving breastmilk.

Yet I still hear on the regular that "once they have teeth" or "when they can ask for it", breastfeeding should stop.

For Lane, breastfeeding isn't just a source of nutrition and comfort. It's how I get him to sleep.

It's my superpower, actually.

Breastfeeding my toddler in public

In many cultures, extended breastfeeding is simply "breastfeeding".

But while breasts continue to be viewed primarily as sexual objects, there will always be challenges for women to embrace feeding in public. 

I have never shied away from feeding my son in public and have only received positive comments — largely from women of course.

However, as he grows, I become more aware of the potential for people to criticise our choice.

It doesn't matter how much I know that criticism would be misinformed, I still experience a level of vulnerability.

I plan to breastfeed Lane for as long as it's working for both of us, and hate to think there might come a time I would discourage him from latching in a public space.

I hope I can stay strong in my resolve to help normalise full-term breastfeeding.

I want you to see us. Because what we're doing is beautiful.

If you need support on your breastfeeding journey, reach out to the Australian Breastfeeding Association.