I breastfed all my children until they were four years old. Talk about extended breastfeeding! I tandem-nursed them, which means I nursed two kids simultaneously until my middle child weaned at four, and then I continued with my youngest until he reached four and a half. Surprisingly, I wasn’t just following some unconventional trend; rather, I was tapping into an ancient practice.
Research from the University of Bristol reveals that our forebears engaged in extended breastfeeding, which refers to nursing beyond the age of two. According to experts at Kellymom, these mothers often breastfed their children until they were three or four years old. In contrast, many people today feel uncomfortable with infants nursing beyond their first birthday, and some pediatricians argue that breast milk loses its nutritional value after that age. However, as Kellymom emphasizes, “Breastfeeding remains a valuable source of nutrition and protection against diseases for as long as it continues.”
The research involved examining tiny amounts of stable calcium isotopes found in the teeth of three human species from South Africa: early Homo sapiens, Paranthropus robustus, and Australopithecus africanus. These calcium deposits are unique to a mother’s milk and provide insight into how long infants were breastfed. Findings indicate that early Homo sapiens babies nursed for three to four years, a duration believed to have contributed to the development of crucial human characteristics, including brain growth. In comparison, Paranthropus robustus, which became extinct a million years ago, only nursed for a few months, while Australopithecus africanus had similar patterns. The researchers noted that “these differences in nursing behaviors likely correspond with significant changes in the social structures of their groups and the timing of subsequent births.”
It appears that those who practiced extended breastfeeding had an evolutionary advantage during that era. In our modern world, we benefit from advanced medical care and readily available nutritious food. So, why continue with extended breastfeeding today?
For my family, it felt natural. My eldest son found comfort in nursing: it soothed him during his infancy and quelled his toddler tantrums. Breastfeeding provided a sense of security, helping him feel more at ease when faced with fears. It also made nighttime parenting easier, as he would drift off to sleep without much effort on my part. When his younger sibling arrived, he didn’t feel a sense of loss; instead, he shared this special bond. There were moments when he would hold hands with his little brother while nursing—a truly heartwarming sight.
We also recognized that extended breastfeeding offered health benefits. The American Academy of Family Physicians notes that children weaned before two years old face a higher risk of illness. We experienced this firsthand; our breastfed children were often less affected by the common illnesses that circulated in our household. Even if they caught a stomach bug, breast milk was typically the only sustenance they could tolerate.
Beyond physical health, extended breastfeeding can foster social, emotional, and cognitive development. Kellymom cites research linking longer breastfeeding durations to enhanced social skills and suggests that shorter breastfeeding periods may predict negative mental health outcomes during childhood and early adolescence. However, defining what constitutes “short” or “long” breastfeeding can be complex, as studies may vary in their timeframes, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons about extended breastfeeding.
Experts agree that more research is necessary to understand the relationship between weaning practices and other traits like brain size and social behavior. Thus, while extended breastfeeding may have played a role in our evolution and certainly worked well for our family, it’s ultimately up to each mother to decide what is best for her.
And regarding our ancestors? It’s clear they engaged in extended breastfeeding, but the implications of that practice remain uncertain. Whether you’re nursing your toddler or have chosen a different path, find comfort in your decision. We’re no longer living in a time when we must hunt for food to survive.
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Summary:
Extended breastfeeding has deep roots in human history, with our ancestors often nursing their children until the ages of three or four. While modern perceptions may vary, many families find value in continuing to breastfeed past infancy for both health and emotional reasons. Ultimately, each mother must make the choice that feels right for her family.