A couple of weeks ago Aaron had his baptism followed by a party.
Late in the party (about 4:30 p.m.) he was thirsty so I gave him a bottle - the 9 oz closer to nature Tommee Tippee bottle - Aaron is 17 months.
A close family friend said he should be off bottles by now. His Grandson is not a year yet, but hasn't been breastfed and uses a dummy (pacifier). I have breastfed Aaron to 13 months and he has never ever used a dummy.
If Aaron finds the suckling reflex comforting, then that is fine by me, and yes he still has a bottle at bedtime...
I spoke to my Polish friend who was at the party and she said what is his problem (and people in the UK's) as in Poland "we let them have bottles till they are 2 or 3 years old".
I must say, Aaron may be a tall boy, and in age 2-3 years clothes but he IS A BABY.
Why do we try to make them grow up so quick...?
And just so you can categorise and pigeon hole me further, I have never done controlled crying, I am not a Gina Ford reading mum and yes I believe in the merits of baby wearing and still actively use a sling (Moby Wrap).
The Baby Center says:
Aim to get the bedtime bottle of milk completely out of your child's life by the time he's 12 to 18 months old. It can be a tough habit to break, but rest easy knowing your baby doesn't need the calories in the milk. By 12 months your child should be getting all his nutritional needs met with his daytime meals. Try giving your baby other comfort objects at night, such as a favorite blanket or stuffed toy.Click on the link above as the comments on the Baby Center post say it all, so I don't have to! Smug!
So I guess with Aaron being 17 months I am up against a deadline, IF I choose to listen to them, which I may do, but Aaron may not.
Like I say It's My Party and I'll Suck if I Want To.
Folks, THAT is what counts.
Oh and if you REALLY want to throw the Gina Ford book at me, he still sleeps in our room.
Over and out, and bye for now,
Liska xxx
