Tandem nursing is the practice of breastfeeding two or more children of different ages at the same time. It is generally referred to as nursing a new baby while an older one is still nursing. Tandem nursing is not common among mothers, but many mothers have found that it works for their family. Tandem nursing can help to ease the transition of having a new baby in the family, and children who have been tandem nursed often continue to have a special bond throughout life.

Tandem nursing is a big commitment and emotions can run high at times. Mothers may experience huge highs, deep lows, find it too demanding, and think it is magical, all within a short space of time. It can feel as if it will be this way forever, but it might be helpful to remember that babies are small for a short period of time and the dynamics between the mother and the two (or more) nurslings will soon change.

Tandem nursing can be beneficial for both the mother and the children. Breast milk continues to provide nutrition, assists with the immune system, provides gut microbiota, comfort, and social and intellectual development for as long as the breastfeeding relationship continues, and tandem feeding supports both the relationship with the new baby and continues the breastfeeding relationship with the older sibling. Tandem nursing can also help to bring in milk sooner, can help with engorgement, and help to unblock any potential milk blockages.

Tandem nursing is not for everyone, and it is a big commitment. Mothers who decide to tandem nurse should have realistic expectations about what they can manage at this point in time. Tandem nursing can be challenging, and mothers may face similar challenges, including deciding if they want to breastfeed their two children simultaneously or separately. Mothers who are considering tandem nursing should talk to their healthcare provider or a lactation consultant to determine if it is the right choice for them and their family.