Breastfeeding your older baby

For many mums, passing the 6-month mark means that most breastfeeding challenges have been overcome. You may find that your baby now feeds easily and more quickly.

You no longer feel like you are ‘feeding all day’ and your baby gets themselves on and off the breast like an expert. Breastfeeding in the second six months can be rewarding.

Do older babies still have frequent feeds?

Even though older babies may feed quickly, they may still have times where they want to feed more frequently. These situations may include:

going through a fussy period
when feeling unwell or teething
with a sore tummy
if they are tired
if you have been away from them for a time
for emotional security.

This is normal and you are meeting their physical and emotional needs by responding to them.

Breastfeeding and solids

Breastmilk is still your baby’s main source of nutrients and energy until they’re 12 months old. Family foods are less important during this time. Introducing solids is about helping your baby explore new tastes and join in at family mealtimes.

Many mums worry about whether to offer solids before or after a breastfeed. It doesn’t really matter as long as your baby is having enough breastfeeds and solids aren’t taking the place of feeds. Too many solids at this time can impact on a mum’s milk supply. Continue to breastfeed your baby as often as they want. If you feel that your baby isn’t as interested, you could try offering fewer solids for a while.

A ‘meal’ for your baby doesn’t have to include both solids and a breastfeed. You can offer them at different times.

Common feeding behaviours

As babies get older they can be distracted during feeds. Many will also find different positions in which to feed and may also become quite active while at the breast.

You may need to find a quiet time and place to help your baby to settle and focus on feeding. Giving your baby something to hold or play with, for example a colourful necklace, can help.

Does my baby still need night feeds?

You’ve probably been doing night feeds for many months so you might be wondering if your baby still needs these. Breastfeeding is still important into the second 6 months, and night feeds are part of this.

Many people think that babies will be sleeping through by 6 months. However, research shows that only half of 6-month-olds are sleeping for 8 hours without waking. By the end of 12 months, only a third are sleeping through. So if your baby is still waking for one or more feeds overnight, this is quite normal.

You may find that it helps to have your baby sleep close to you. Many parents co-sleep to make night feeds easier.