Extended Breastfeeding

Posted by Summer M

July 19, 2007 |

Ann Sinnott, whose 15 year old daughter self-weaned at the age of six and a half, is writing a book about sustained breastfeeding, (breastfeeding children three years and older). She would like long-term breastfeeding mothers, past and present, to complete a questionnaire at the link below. She would also like completed questionnaires from mothers who are breastfeeding children 18 months to two years, provided breastfeeding is open-ended [no decision to wean] or continuation to long-term is being considered.

With a background in health journalism, Sinnott’s aim is to challenge the ignorance, prejudice and fear surrounding this natural and essentially healthy practice. Drawing on both scientific research findings and parental narratives, the book will appeal to parents, health professionals and all those with an interest in child development.

Questionnaires have so far been returned from: Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Channel Islands, Croatia, England, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Hawaii, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Norway, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Scotland, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, USA and Wales.

According to Sinnot, all over the globe, in ever-increasing numbers, mothers are electing to sustain breastfeeding.

She envisions this project as an opportunity for long-term breastfeeding mothers to stand up and be counted and help create change. Sinnot believes that the greater the number of participants in this survey, the greater the potential to influence opinion, and transform attitudes.

In order to maintain accuracy of numbers, please do not participate if you have previously contacted Sinnot.

Confidentiality maintained and anonymity assured. Go to the Breastfeeding Older Children homepage and scroll down to download the questionnaire to your computer.

More Women Are Breastfeeding Their Toddlers

Happy and Healthy Baby: Benefits of Extended Breastfeeding

The Prejudice Against Extended Nursing

breastfeeding, extended breastfeeding