Does Extended Nursing Affect Potty Training?

Extended nursing is a term used to describe long-term breast-feeding, which is generally considered to be beyond the age of 1. Many mothers feel pressure to stop nursing after this time, but if both mother and child are happy to continue, this is more than enough reason to carry on. Mothers who extend nursing often have concerns about how breast-feeding will affect other stages of a toddler's development, such as potty training.

  1. Breast-feeding Recommendations

    • Breast-feeding gives baby vital nutrients and helps the bonding process.

      The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breast-feeding until the baby reaches the age of 6 months, followed by breast milk and solid foods until he is a year old. The World Health Organization also recommends exclusive breast-feeding for the first 6 months, with a combination of breast-feeding and solid foods up to 24 months or older. Many mothers choose to extend breast-feeding beyond the age of 24 months. According to the Mayo Clinic, the average length of time for mothers across the world to breast-feed is between 2 and 4 years.

    Diet

    • Toddlers should be eating plenty of solid foods before they are potty trained.

      A child may be ready for potty training while she is still breast-feeding. This should not pose any problems, provided she is also eating solid foods. She will find it difficult to establish bowel control if she is not eating a wide range of solid foods on a regular basis. Most babies are able to eat the majority of foods without assistance by the age of 12 months. If most of a child's nutrients come from solid food rather than breast milk, she should be ready to potty train.

    Weaning

    • Too much change in a toddler's life can cause confusion and distress.

      While extended nursing is unlikely to interfere with potty training, it is not advisable to attempt weaning and potty training at the same time. During periods of change or stress, potty training is best avoided. According to the Mayo Clinic, weaning is best initiated by the child himself. Simultaneous weaning and potty training may lead to confusion and regression.

    Potty Training Guidelines

    • Children will show signs of being ready for potty training.

      Most children are ready for potty training between 18 and 24 months, according to Kids Health. If your toddler is showing an interest in using the potty or toilet, is able to follow simple instructions and has the motor skills necessary to pull up underwear, it could be a good time to start potty training, whether you are still nursing her or not. It is best to move at your child's pace, and be prepared for a lengthy process with some periods of regression.

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