International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Gain confidence for the IBCLC Exam. Try our quizzes featuring flashcards and multiple choice questions, all accompanied by hints and detailed explanations. Prepare effectively for your certification exam!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


At what age does true child-led weaning typically occur?

  1. 12 - 24 months

  2. 24 - 36 months

  3. 30 - 60 months

  4. 36 - 48 months

The correct answer is: 30 - 60 months

True child-led weaning generally occurs between the ages of 30 to 60 months. This timeframe reflects the age range when many children develop the autonomy and ability to make choices about their nutritional intake and feeding, including the gradual reduction of breastfeeding. During this period, children start to show a greater interest in solid foods and may also exhibit a decreasing desire for breast milk, which aligns with their developmental milestones and growing independence. Research indicates that many children naturally self-wean during this range, as they become more engaged in the social aspects of eating and begin to assert their preferences. Additionally, this age frame allows for the gradual transition away from breastfeeding in a supportive environment, respecting the child’s individual pace and readiness for this process. This understanding is essential for lactation consultants and caregivers, as it helps guide families through the weaning process in a manner that honors the child’s needs and promotes a positive experience.