Tandem breastfeeding, the practice of nursing two children of different ages simultaneously or sequentially, presents unique challenges and rewards. This journey involves juggling the nutritional needs of a newborn with the emotional needs of a toddler. While it requires patience and preparation, tandem nursing allows a parent to maintain a close, comforting relationship with their older child while establishing a bond with the new baby.
Preparing for the Tandem Journey
Continuing to nurse during pregnancy alters the composition of the milk and requires proactive steps to ensure comfort and nutrition. Around the fourth or fifth month of pregnancy, hormonal shifts cause the milk supply to naturally decrease and change to colostrum, which is the first milk produced after birth. This change often includes a saltier taste and a lower volume, which may cause the older child to voluntarily wean or experience a nursing strike.
To sustain the physical demands of tandem feeding, a parent should aim to consume an additional 800 to 1,000 calories per day, depending on the toddler’s nursing frequency. Focus on a nutrient-dense diet rich in protein and calcium, and prioritize hydration by drinking at least 12 to 16 glasses of water daily. Preparing the older child emotionally involves talking openly about the new baby’s arrival and the need to share nursing time. Reading books about babies nursing or involving the toddler in discussions about the new sibling’s feeding needs can help ease their transition.
Essential Positions for Simultaneous Feeding
Simultaneously nursing a newborn and a toddler requires strategic positioning. The “Double Football Hold” is an excellent initial position, particularly for a newborn and a parent recovering from a Cesarean section. In this hold, both children are tucked under the parent’s arms, with their bodies parallel to the sides of the torso and their feet pointing toward the back of the chair.
The Double Football Hold offers good visibility and control over each child’s latch, which is important for the newborn. A large, flat nursing pillow or multiple cushions are recommended to bring both children to the correct height and allow the parent to be hands-free. A “Combination Hold,” such as the Cradle and Football, is another versatile option, where the newborn is in the football position and the toddler is in the cradle hold, or vice versa. As the newborn gains better head control, positions like the “V-Hold” or “Double Cradle” become feasible, where the children lie across the lap forming a V-shape. Maintaining comfortable back support and ensuring the children are securely positioned is paramount for successful tandem feeding.
Establishing Priority and Setting Boundaries
The newborn must be offered the breast first to ensure they receive the full benefit of the antibody-rich colostrum. Prioritizing the newborn’s feeding also helps establish the parent’s milk supply based on the infant’s demand. While the body is capable of producing enough milk for two, the newborn’s weight and output should be monitored closely to confirm adequate intake.
Clear, gentle boundaries are necessary for managing the older child’s behavior and the parent’s comfort, particularly if nursing aversion occurs. Strategies for the older child include establishing a firm rule against biting by immediately and calmly stopping the nursing session.
To manage jealousy or attention-seeking, parents can designate a special “nursing spot” or bring out a “nursing box” containing unique toys only available during the baby’s feeding time. Using simple, consistent language to set limits, such as “not right now, but later,” or involving the toddler as a “helper” can help them feel included and reduce negative attention-seeking behaviors.