My 4 year old is so jealous…
Added 2022-01-17 00:25:10 +0000 UTCSibling rivalry and jealousy are common. My 4 year old is really jealous of her younger sibling. Counteracting a jealous rivalry can be tough but it can be done. I always spend extra mommy time with my older child to let her know she is important and still cuddle and let her know through words and actions that she will never be replaced but equally loved and appreciated. Taking the milk source away when she insists on being held like her sister and cuddled up to the breast can lead to fights and unhealthy jealous behavior. I still allow her to breastfeed when she asks for it as it’s healthy and natural to extended breastfeed a child. I draw the line at nipple twiddling! As you can see in one of the pics above when she tried to twiddle I told her “you know that mommy doesn’t like that!” A sincere I’m sorry mommy and a tight hug were her reply.
Doing what is best for us together as a family and not listening to any of societal opinions about extended feeding have worked well for my family. Each and every family should do what feels right for them. As more research emerges about extended breastfeeding more people will be educated once again about the importance and impact this has on the health and well-being of a child.
