WEANING AGES IN A SAMPLE OF AMERICAN WOMEN WHO PRACTICE EXTENDED BREAST-FEEDING

This research examined age and method of weaning in a sample of 179 wo men who practiced extended breastfeeding. The average age for weaning was between 2 years 6 months and 3 years 0 months and ranged from 1 mo nth to 7 years 4 months. Fourteen women had each weaned at least three children, and the youngest children were significantly older at the t ime of weaning than were their older siblings. Weaning was described a s being ''gradual'' and ''child-led'' by the majority of women. A smal ler, but substantial, percentage of women cited reasons for weaning re lated to a subsequent pregnancy. Weaning ages for women who practice e xtended nursing were substantially older than were those of more typic al North American mothers and were similar to those in traditional cul tures with similar parenting practices.