Mum writes viral post explaining why her child isn’t ‘too old’ to breastfeed

'This is my body, my child, my boobs, so no one gets to decide when my child is too old to breastfeed, but me and my child'

Stock image (iStockphoto)

Breastfeeding is a more controversial topic than it needs to be. It’s natural, simple and shouldn’t be such a talking point, but many people still have issues with it.

And one woman fighting to empower nursing women is Kristy Kemp, founder of the Facebook page Breastfeeding Mama Talk.

A recent post in the group by Kemp, in which she explains why her child isn’t “too old” to be breastfed, has made waves.

“The WHO recommends breastfeeding until the age of two or beyond,” Kemp writes.

“Which means according to the World Health Organisation there is no cut off age in which a child should be weaned. I will listen to that recommendation, what my child wants, and my heart before someone’s uneducated opinion on the matter.”

She goes on to explain that she believes breastfeeding isn’t just about the milk, but it’s about the comfort it gives a child, much in the same way a blanket or favourite toy would.

“I’m his comfort, security, nourishment, and more. Why the rush to rip away something that is so good and beneficial that I’m willing to keep giving for however long he wants me to?”

Kemp says her son does eat solid food and receives most of his nutrients from it, but that doesn’t mean he can’t reap the benefits of breast milk.

“If any of the above reasons are too complicated for you to understand how about this, this is my body, my child, my boobs, so no one gets to decide when my child is too old to breastfeed, but me and my child,” Kemp writes.

And many people support her view.

“She’s three years old today with no end in sight and no reason to stop until she’s ready!” one woman commented, alongside a picture of her daughter breastfeeding.

“All I’m saying is that if it’s okay to give a kid cow’s milk it’s okay to give a kid breast milk - anyone who says anything to you and still drinks cow’s milk needs to shut up,” added another.

According to the NHS, “exclusive breastfeeding (breast milk only) is recommended for around the first six months of your baby’s life. Breastfeeding alongside family foods is best for babies from six months.

“You and your baby can carry on enjoying the benefits of breastfeeding for as long as you like. Breastfeeding into your baby’s second year or beyond alongside other foods is ideal.”