I borrowed and read an early edition of Mothering Your Nursing Toddler by Norma Jane Bumgarner when my first born daughter was nearing her first birthday. Though I had already made the decision to continue nursing her it was comforting to read the information provided by this book.
I have since reread the book for reinforcement and reassurance. I've used it as a reference, and I often refer to a copy of the latest edition for myself as I continue to have more children and as a guidebook for supporting other mothers. I especially appreciated the chapter that dealt with how to deal with negative criticism from others and the deliberation of whether to keep the nursing relationship a secret or not. I appreciated that the author didn’t spend time psychoanalyzing! I enjoyed reading about the author's own experiences as well as those of countless nursing dyads. The things toddlers have to say about the topic are precious! In addition to being a magnificent resource on breastfeeding, I regard this informative and loving book as a guide to parenting as well. This book is a great manual for moms who have chosen the path of extended breastfeeding. |