While her lifestyle has generally been well-received, extended breastfeeding has drawn significant attention.
Cultural Context and Comfort
In interviews, Visser explained that breastfeeding her older child is no longer primarily about nutrition, but about comfort and emotional connection.
“When I learned that humans historically breastfed for longer periods than is common today, it reframed my perspective,” Visser said. “Extended breastfeeding isn’t biologically unusual — it’s culturally uncommon in some places.”
She also noted that in many parts of the world, children continue to breastfeed beyond what Western societies typically expect. For Visser, nursing her 4-year-old is brief, calm, and child-led, often occurring when her daughter needs reassurance or is feeling tired.
Parenting and Emotional Security
Visser emphasizes that extended breastfeeding can support emotional regulation and a sense of security in children. She said, “Independence grows best from secure attachment, not forced separation. Breastfeeding doesn’t replace independence — it supports it by helping children feel safe and cared for.”
Despite criticism online, Visser says she is proud of her parenting choices and hopes sharing her experiences will help other parents feel less judged for following their own paths.
“Parenting isn’t one-size-fits-all,” she added. “What matters most is that children feel loved, safe, and supported.”