How to Keep an Older Child Amused While You're Breastfeeding

"It is only in the act of nursing that a woman realizes her motherhood in visible and tangible fashion; it is a joy of every moment." (Honore de Balzac/quotegarten.com) Who is she kidding? I bet she never had to potty train a toddler while nursing an infant! De-latching your screaming baby to help your toddler use the bathroom is not what I call a joyful experience. Although I can't control the bathroom needs of your older child, I'd like to share a few tips for keeping them amused.

1. Let them watch television and don't feel bad about it. Having a few of your child's favorite shows on tape can really come in handy. Dora the Explorer and Baby Einstein videos seemed to hold my son's attention the longest. They are both educational shows approximately half an hour in length.

2. Change locations. Before breastfeeding your baby, move to a different room in your house. Going upstairs, to the basement or out in the backyard is a great way to keep your child occupied. Just having new surroundings to look at and a different set of toys to play with, will keep you from being their sole entertainment for a few minutes.

3. Read stories to your child. Moms multitask just about anything. Reading a book to your child while nursing your infant can be an acquired skill. Make sure to nurse on the couch with your child sitting beside you. You can ask questions about the pictures and they can help you turn the pages.

4. Feed your child. Giving your child breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack while you feed your baby is also a great way to keep them amused. It keeps them strapped in their highchair or booster seat for a few minutes instead of emptying your cupboards or trying to climb in your lap.

5. Craft-time. Once again that high chair or booster seat can be a blessing. Make the craft simple and nurse at the table with your child. This way you can help them without getting up.

6. Utilize your spouse, family and friends. If your spouse is home or grandma is visiting, let them look after your older child and nurse in private. Your baby will be less distracted and your older child will not be fighting for your attention.

7. Game time. Play imagination games. I Spy is a great game to play while feeding your baby. There is no need for movement and it's almost impossible to run out of questions. Naming games or category games are also good alternatives to try.

8. Get your toddler involved in the feeding process. A great way to occupy your child is to make them feel helpful. They can bring you supplies, check the time, sing the baby a song, rub the baby's back and help burp the baby. Giving them a doll to feed while you are breastfeeding is great for little girls who like to imitate mommy!

9. Allow your child to play a computer or video game. Although my son was only two when my daughter was born, he was able to play the V-smile system. If I played a game with him a couple of times, he was usually able to play it by himself when I nursed. The games are educational too!

10. Utilize pictures. Set up a computer slideshow or give your child an old-fashioned photo album. It won't keep them amused all of the time, but it may work once a day. Tell your child about the people and places in the pictures. It can be entertaining for you as well.

Years ago moms had a different support system. Women stayed at home and relatives were usually around to help. Children played outside by themselves and were not supervised to the extent they are today. With all these disadvantages, breastfeeding moms need all the help they can get. Hopefully my tips will give you a few ideas and make this crazy time in your life more enjoyable.