There is no one ‘right “ answer. All children will naturally wean on their own. Mothers wean their children anywhere from a few months to 5 or 6 years of age.  Ideally a baby would be exclusively BF to 6 months, and then BF along with food up to 2 years. This is the recommendation from the World Health Organization. Of course longer than 2 years is wonderful, and if you are allowing your child to wean naturally, then you may be BF for a few more years.  Each child is unique, and every family situation is different. It helps to look at your needs, your childs and the family circumstances. If your breastfeeding relationship is working well,then you don’t need to wean…… even if:   I’ve started smoking again Studies have shown that the very small, potential risk of nicotine crossing the milk is FAR outweighed by the benefits of breastfeeding. Of course don’t smoke in the house of any children, and wash hands after smoking. Dr. Jack Newman states "The risks of not breastfeeding are greater to the baby than the risks of breastfeeding and smoking. The decision is up to the mother and I would encourage her to breastfeed." http://www.llli.org/FAQ/smoking.html My baby has teeth coming in and may bite Many babies never bite, even with a full set of teeth. Often the mothers 1st startled response is enough that the baby wont bite again. If they are teething, give them something cold to chew on before breastfeeding to help numb their gums. http://www.llli.org/FAQ/teeth.html   I’m starting back at work Many mothers have been able to continue BF while working. You can pump and leave abottle (or cup), maybe your baby can be brought to you at work. Or you could continue to nurse when your at home after work- a partial weaning http://www.llli.org/FAQ/returnwork.html   Ive reached the 6 month/ 9 month / 1 year mark, and people are starting to ask Society seems to think that children should be weaned much earlier than neccasary. The is no definite time for weaning. Remember it’s a relationship between the 2 of you, and if its still working, then keep at it. Doesn’t matter what others think. Theres lots of mothers out there breastfeeding beyond the “normal” time, and its still of great benefit to the both of you. http://www.kellymom.com/bf/criticism.html     BUT…. If you’ve given it some serious thought and you do want to wean, here’s mintis tips http://www.minti.com/parenting-advice/4249/10-Tried-and-True-Tips-on-Weanin... And some more www.learningtowean.com