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C-Sema Team

What happens when your 1 year old stops breastfeeding?



Mwanaidi, a young mother from Dodoma reached out to the 116 Child Helpline with a concern that many parents of young children can relate to. Her one-year-old child had suddenly refused to breastfeed, leaving her worried and unsure of what to do next.


The counselor provided some reassurance, explaining that it’s not uncommon for children to go through phases where they resist breastfeeding. This behavior could be linked to several factors. Sometimes, it’s a part of normal developmental changes—babies can become more independent and may resist breastfeeding as they explore solid foods. Other times, teething pain could be the culprit, making the child irritable and more interested in chewing on objects than nursing. There could also be a preference for other foods over milk, or the child simply might not be as hungry.


To help Mwanaidi navigate this challenge, the counselor shared some practical tips. She was advised to try expressing breast milk and mixing it with foods the child already enjoyed, like porridge.


Additionally, she could introduce other nutritious solid foods, such as mashed bananas, avocado, cooked and mashed sweet potatoes, pureed vegetables like carrots and pumpkin, or even soft fruits like pawpaw and mango. These options could provide essential nutrients and help ensure the child continued to grow and develop healthily while nursing was reduced.


Mwanaidi was also encouraged to create a calming and inviting breastfeeding environment, which might encourage her child to nurse again. Ensuring the child stayed well-hydrated was important, particularly during this period of reduced breastfeeding. The counselor noted that if the situation persisted or worsened, it would be wise to consult a doctor for further advice.


Throughout the conversation, the counselor emphasized the value of patience and reassurance. It was important for Mwanaidi to stay calm and offer plenty of comfort, as this could help her child feel more secure and potentially encourage a return to breastfeeding.


With these steps in mind, Mwanaidi left the call feeling more prepared to handle the situation, equipped with practical strategies, and reassured that this phase, like many in parenting, could be managed with care and understanding.


Prepared by C-Sema's Communication team.

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