How long is too long? Nikki Reed opens up about breastfeeding her 20-month-old daughter
Nikki Reed is opening up about her decision to continue breastfeeding her 20-month-old daughter.
In a new Instagram post, the “Twilight” actress and jewellery designer talked openly about her experience nursing her daughter, Bodhi Soleil.
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“To be honest, I have no idea how long her and I will be on this journey together,” Reed said. “I follow her lead and she tells me exactly what she needs.”
While most children begin transitioning to solids at four to six months, Reed revealed that her daughter, whom she had with her husband Ian Somerholder, has been slow to show any interest in food.
A post shared by Nikki Reed (@nikkireed) on Apr 9, 2019 at 3:04pm PDT
“It wasn’t until someone suggested I skip pureed foods that she became intrigued by what was on her plate,” she said. “Who knew some kids just don’t ever go for blended baby food. I tried bananas, avocado, all the semi-soft good stuff and she rejected everything.”
Reed is not alone in her decision to continue breastfeeding past the one-year mark. The World Health Organization recommends mothers exclusively breastfeed for the first six months of a baby’s life, and then supplement with solid foods until the age of two, or for as long as mother and child desire.
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Although feeding her daughter hasn’t been textbook, the 30-year-old is encouraging her fellow moms to do what they feel is right for their baby.
“In case you need to hear it again because I definitely did, whatever you are doing you are doing it right!” Reed said. “Every baby is on their own path doing things when and how they need to, and our job is to trust our gut, talk to other mamas and just go with the flow.”
Reed received praise from women, with many echoing her experience with switching to solid foods.
“Yes! You are right Nikki!” one follower said. “The same thing happened to me! And I was frustrated at the beginning because of others’ opinions and standards, but I did as you and changed what to offer my little girl, and I was surprised how soon she improved and accepted food!”
“I breastfed her until she was two years old. I will treasure and cherish the days of breastfeeding forever,” the fan continued. “So don’t care about others, just keep being the mom you are because you are doing it great!”
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