A Perth Mom Sparks Debate by Breastfeeding Her 6-Year-Old While Enjoying a Drink

Parenting is full of personal choices, and sometimes those choices spark heated conversations online. Lauren McLeod, a mother from Perth, Australia, recently found herself at the center of such a debate after sharing her experience of breastfeeding her six-year-old son and her four-year-old daughter. Her story quickly went viral, with people expressing strong opinions—both supportive and critical—about her decisions.

Lauren has been open about her approach to parenting, explaining that she always does what she feels is best for her children. She believes extended breastfeeding can provide emotional security and a strong bond between parent and child. To celebrate the milestone of her son’s final breastfeeding session, she hosted a “bye-bye boobie” party—a heartfelt and personal way to mark the end of that chapter in their lives.

Some of the criticism Lauren faced focused on the fact that she was enjoying a drink while breastfeeding. In response, she explained that she follows safe practices regarding alcohol consumption and breastfeeding. She also highlighted that much of the public backlash comes from misconceptions about how alcohol actually affects breastmilk.

Lauren’s story has sparked wider conversations about parenting norms, judgment, and the stigma that still surrounds extended breastfeeding. Many parents and experts have pointed out that each child and family is different, and what works for one family may not work for another. By sharing her journey openly, Lauren has encouraged more dialogue about supporting parents without judgment and understanding the nuances of childcare choices.

At its core, Lauren’s experience reminds us that parenting is deeply personal. While public opinion can be strong, what truly matters is the safety, well-being, and emotional growth of the children involved. Her story shows the importance of respecting different parenting approaches and the value of informed, compassionate discussions rather than snap judgments.