Weaning a 4.5-year-old due to meds

[NameThatMama]

I may have to take a medication that's highly toxic to nurslings, and in case that happens, I need to start thinking about how to handle this with my 4.5-year-old. Any thoughts or resources to share? I had really hoped to let her wean herself, and if I don't have to start this drug, we'll still let her stop nursing on her own.

[claras_mom]

I think with a child that age, you just have to explain it as best and honestly as you can. That you have to take something to make you healthy, but that it's not good for kids and will come into the milk.

I know that if I had to explain something like that to my 5.5 yo she'd definitely be sad and would probably want to debate and ask lots of questions, but would ultimately get it.

[SundayCrepes]

I dislike when my 4.5 year old nurses. His suck is so sloppy it's annoying. I limit him by asking him how many "bits" does he want. He always wants 11. Perhaps some combination of starting by cutting back and the good idea of talking has pp stated would work.

[kohlby]

I agree to explain it. My DD turned 4 in March so I'm thinking of how I would handle it if I were in the same situation. She wouldn't like it, but she would understand it. I'd wait until you're certain that you have to wean her and then let her know. Make sure to give her extra cuddles!

[auburnmamma]

i recently had to wean my almost 3 y/o (i've been nursing for 7 years with 3 boys each for 2 1/2 or so years - this was the longest yet.) i wanted rain to be self led and he was in part with cutting down - then I got poison ivy on my nipples. This was 2 weeks ago - he nurses with his hand now - just holding them when he is sad or needing to be close but he was able to understand that mommy had an owie. kids are amazing and I think it is harder for us and harder to say "no" when part of feels guilty... but there comes a time.