Breastfeeding Frequency for a Toddler Approaching 2 Years
For a child approaching 2 years who eats a lot of solids, breastfeeding 2-4 times per day is typically appropriate, with sessions often occurring in the morning, before naps, before bedtime, or when the child needs comfort.
Breastfeeding Recommendations for Toddlers
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and World Health Organization (WHO) both support continued breastfeeding until 2 years of age or beyond, as mutually desired by mother and child 1, 2. As children approach their second birthday, breastfeeding naturally transitions from being the primary source of nutrition to becoming a supplemental source of nutrition and comfort.
Typical Breastfeeding Pattern for Toddlers (19-24 months)
At this age, the breastfeeding pattern typically includes:
- Frequency: 2-4 nursing sessions per day is common
- Timing: Often occurs at specific times:
- Morning (upon waking)
- Before naps
- Before bedtime
- For comfort during illness or distress
Nutritional Context
By 19-24 months, solid foods should constitute the majority of your child's nutritional intake:
- Solid foods should provide most calories and nutrients
- Breast milk becomes a supplemental source of nutrition
- Children at this age typically eat 3-4 meals and 1-2 snacks per day 1
The transition from exclusive breastfeeding to a diet primarily consisting of solid foods is a gradual process that begins around 6 months and continues through the second year of life 1. By 19-24 months, the child's diet should include a variety of nutrient-dense foods from all food groups.
Benefits of Continued Breastfeeding
Even with reduced frequency, continuing to breastfeed a toddler offers several benefits:
- Provides immunological protection against infections
- Offers comfort during illness, teething, or emotional distress
- Supports continued bonding between mother and child
- Contributes valuable nutrition, especially during illness when appetite for solids may decrease
Following Your Child's Lead
It's important to note that breastfeeding frequency at this age is often child-led:
- Some toddlers may want to nurse more frequently
- Others may naturally reduce sessions to once or twice daily
- The pattern may change during illness, developmental leaps, or other transitions
Practical Considerations
When breastfeeding a toddler who eats plenty of solids:
- Timing: Offer breast after meals rather than before to ensure solid foods remain the primary source of nutrition
- Setting limits: It's appropriate to set gentle boundaries around nursing sessions if needed
- Weaning: If you're considering weaning, a gradual approach is recommended, eliminating one feeding at a time
Key Points to Remember
- Breastfeeding 2-4 times daily is typical for toddlers approaching age 2
- Solid foods should provide the majority of nutrients at this age
- The frequency and duration of breastfeeding sessions naturally decrease as children get older
- Follow your child's cues while gently guiding the transition to a primarily solid-food diet
This pattern supports the AAP recommendation for continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods for 2 years or beyond, as mutually desired by mother and child 1.