Coco Austin Defends Extended Breastfeeding Journey With Daughter Chanel

Model and television personality Coco Austin is addressing her decision to breastfeed her daughter, Chanel, until age six. The choice, which she first revealed publicly in 2021, has recently resurfaced in podcast discussions. Austin explained her reasoning in a candid new interview.

She emphasized that the practice was about bonding, not nutrition. Chanel was eating solid foods normally by age one.

Bonding Over Nutrition: A Mother’s Perspective

According to Austin, the extended breastfeeding was a comfort mechanism for her daughter. It was primarily a way for Chanel to feel close to her mother, especially at bedtime. Austin decided to follow a child-led weaning approach.

She trusted her daughter would stop when she felt ready. Austin noted this natural stopping point occurred around the age of six.

Cultural Norms and Personal Choices in Parenting

Austin is aware her decision falls outside American mainstream practices. She pointed to different cultural norms elsewhere in the world. In some European countries, she noted, extended breastfeeding is more accepted.

She challenged the tendency to sexualize the act of breastfeeding. For her, it was a simple, natural part of motherhood and connection. Austin stated she has no regrets about the extended bonding time with her daughter.

She values the closeness it fostered in their relationship. To this day, she says Chanel remains very physically affectionate.

Coco Austin’s story highlights the deeply personal nature of parenting choices and the ongoing conversation around extended breastfeeding practices.

Thought you’d like to know

How long did Coco Austin breastfeed her daughter?

Coco Austin breastfed her daughter, Chanel, until she was approximately six years old. She followed a child-led weaning approach throughout the process.

Why did she choose extended breastfeeding?

Austin stated it was for bonding and comfort, not nutritional needs. She described it as a way for her daughter to feel close and secure, particularly at bedtime.

Is extended breastfeeding common?

While less common in the United States, practices vary globally. Austin referenced that in some parts of Europe, breastfeeding into later childhood is more culturally accepted.

What has been the public reaction?

The decision has drawn both support and criticism. Austin has defended her choice as a personal and beneficial bonding experience for her and her child.

What do medical experts say?

Organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics support breastfeeding for two years or longer based on mutual desire. They acknowledge the nutritional and immunological benefits during this time.