The process of wean baby completely off breast milk can take up to a period of approximately 2 weeks. Individual circumstances and needs will determine the exact time period taken to wean baby off breast milk. Weaning baby is part of the natural breast feeding experience. It is much easier to wean baby during the infancy years than toddler years. The quality of breast milk reduces as the baby grows resulting in the decrease in nutritional value of the milk. The benefit of breast feeding decreases resulting in the breast becoming more of a pacifier or a soother rather than a food source.

Guidelines on wean baby off breast milk
*Considering the baby’s age and the reason for wean baby off breast milk, you as a parent need to decide the time period to under take this task. Once the decision is made it is important to adhere to it both mentally and emotionally
*Plan a healthy meal menu that is balanced and incorporates as many vitamins, minerals, proteins and carbohydrates. This will increase the food intake of your child and reduce the quantity of breast milk consumption.
*To encourage the consumption of solid meals try to eat with your child and make mouthing sounds such as yummy or ‘hmmm’. This will entice your child psychologically to eat the variety of food presented to him/her.
*It is essential to stick to your decision although at times it may prove difficult. This would prevent you and your child from reverting back to breast feeds.
*At the age of 2 your toddler is able to comprehend and verbally communicate adequately. You can use this communication skill to your advantage by explaining to your child that he/she is big and is ready to do big kids stuff, and breast milk is best left for little babies. It is important to also stress that you are not taking the breast away but merely making space for much tastier and yummy big kid’s food. This prevents the child developing psychological and emotional issues such as abandonment and separation anxiety
*Your child should consume a meal every 2 hours as he/she needs energy to maintain his/her active lifestyle. Snacking on in- between meals such as fruit, juice, yoghurt or nuts will also help to maintain energy levels.
*Reduce breast feeding gradually by replacing each feed with a solid meal. Do not stop all together. Start to reduce day time feeds first and gradually reduce night feeds.
*Before bedtime ensure that your child has consumed a good meal as a child with a full tummy will have a good night sleep with fewer awakenings during the night.
*During night awakenings you can offer warm milk, Milo, or Nes-quick instead of breast milk. This will allow your child to relax and remain content with her/his night time feed. It is essential to offer water after the milk beverage as to avoid the development of cavities in the long term that can occur with milk residue in the mouth. Milk beverages and water can be offered in a feeding cup as your child finds the sucking action soothing and comforting.