Sheryl Wynne, a mom from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, England, has decided to breastfeed her two boys – aged five and six – before and after school and says she won’t stop until they decide it’s time on their own.
Sheryl insists that breastfeeding her school-age sons is entirely normal and has cemented a lifelong bond between them and made them “closer”.
The 39-year-old nurses both Riley, six, and Mylo, five, before school, in the evening, and throughout the night. Sheryl believes that ‘mommy milk’ is the ‘ultimate parenting tool’ as it helps calm the children and comforts them when they’re upset or ill.
However, the mom-of-two admits that she does receive negative comments from strangers and even family members, who question if the ‘way her children behave’ is anything to do with them being breastfed still. Still, Sheryl says ‘that’s children.’ She tells the Star:
“They question whether the way my children behave is anything to do with them being breastfed. They’re hard work but that’s children. People think they’re experts in other people’s children but I’m not doing it blind even though I am following my instincts in many ways.”
Despite the negative comments, Sheryl sees breastfeeding as a way to connect with her sons, even using it to comfort them in the school playground.
“My eldest wouldn’t ask for it when we’re out because he knows other people will see but he will behind closed doors but my youngest is confident. Before Mylo went into preschool he was asking for mummy milk in the playground in the morning. He took me to the bench and I had to dig deep into myself. I wanted to tell him we weren’t doing it there because people could see but I didn’t want to pass my anxieties onto him.“
Sheryl, a hypnobirthing teacher, and doula said: “I think about when I’ll stop all of the time. It never felt right to end it unnecessarily. It’s what they’re asking for and it’s biologically normal even if it’s not in society.”
Sheryl said: “It’s about comfort. If they’re ill, that’s where they want to be to help them calm down but we don’t live in a society that’s supportive of that after infancy which is why we don’t see it.”
Sheryl hopes she can dispel some of the myths surrounding the natural term breastfeeding, the practice of nursing until the child chooses to wean.
The Great Breastfeeding Debate: How Long Should Mothers Nurse Their Babies?
As new mothers, one of the biggest decisions we face is how long we should breastfeed our little ones. The answer, however, is not as cut and dry as you may think.
Why the Confusion? The Different Recommendations for Breastfeeding
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that mothers breastfeed for at least the first six months of their baby’s life, and continue breastfeeding as complementary foods are introduced until at least 12 months. On the other hand, the World Health Organization recommends that mothers breastfeed for at least two years, or as long as mutually desired by mother and baby. So, what gives?
The Science Behind Breastfeeding: The Benefits for Both Mom and Baby
It’s important to understand that breastfeeding is not just about providing nutrition for your baby, but also about building a bond and providing immunity. Breast milk is packed with antibodies and immune-boosting properties that cannot be replicated in formula. Breastfeeding also helps to reduce the risk of certain cancers in mothers and can help with postpartum weight loss.
Making the Decision That’s Right for You and Your Baby
At the end of the day, the decision of how long to breastfeed is a personal one that should be made between a mother and her healthcare provider. Some mothers may choose to breastfeed for the recommended six months, while others may choose to continue breastfeeding for a year or more. And that’s okay! Every mother and baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another.
Bottom Line: Breastfeed as Long as it Works for You and Your Baby
So, whether you choose to breastfeed for six months or two years, remember that the most important thing is that you and your baby are happy and healthy. Don’t let anyone make you feel guilty for your decision, and always trust your instincts. Happy breastfeeding!
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Cover image via Emily Ratajkowski: