The image of exhausted new parents is more than just a cliché; it’s a reality! Caring for a newborn means adjusting to a routine filled with late-night feedings, leaving you awake when you’re desperate for sleep. Just as you’re about to drift into a restful slumber, your baby’s cries remind you it’s time for another feeding. While babies typically start to sleep longer between feedings after the newborn phase, that’s not always the case. If this sounds familiar and you’re looking for a way to snag a few extra hours of sleep, mastering the dream feed technique may be beneficial.
What is a Dream Feed?
A dream feed is exactly what it sounds like. It involves gently stirring your baby — without fully waking them — to offer one last feeding before you turn in for the night. The idea is to “top them off” while they’re still asleep, helping them stay satisfied longer and allowing you more uninterrupted rest.
When Should You Dream Feed?
The concept of dream feeding is to provide one last feed before you retire for the night, acting as a proactive measure against hunger-induced wake-ups. Babies who fall asleep between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. often wake during the night for nourishment. Typically, a dream feed occurs about two to three hours after you’ve tucked your little one in, which for many parents means between 10 p.m. and midnight.
Is a Dream Feed a Full Feeding?
Since your baby will be in a sleepy state during the dream feed, they may not consume a full meal. However, even a small snack can still be effective, as long as they get a little something to help them settle.
How Do You Dream Feed?
Around 10 p.m. to midnight (or whatever fits your schedule), gently lift your baby from their crib or bassinet. Position your nipple or a bottle near their lower lip to encourage feeding. If you’re breastfeeding, aim for about 5 to 10 minutes on each side.
Do You Burp During a Dream Feed?
Yes! Just like with regular feedings, it’s important to burp your baby after a dream feed. You want to maximize your sleep, and an uncomfortable baby won’t help with that. While they may still be in a sleepy state, they can often let out a good burp without fully waking.
What If Your Baby Wakes Up?
Even with the best intentions, your little one may wake during a dream feed. If that happens, use your usual calming techniques to help them drift back to sleep. Swaddling, rocking, or gently walking around with them can be effective methods.
Additional Benefits of Dream Feeding
Dream feeding can be a game changer. By feeding your baby while they sleep, you can reduce those middle-of-the-night hunger cries, allowing for a more restful night for both of you. Beyond just providing extra sleep, it can also help ensure your baby gets enough calories, especially if they are underweight or require extra nourishment. Additionally, those quiet moments of cuddling can strengthen your bond with your baby, aiding their emotional and social development.
Potential Drawbacks of Dream Feeding
However, there are some considerations. Even with dream feeding, your baby may still wake up for other reasons, such as discomfort from being cold or in an awkward position. There’s also a chance that waking them could lead to new challenges with their sleep routine, as they might start associating feeding with falling asleep.
Tips for Getting Your Newborn to Sleep at Night
A peaceful sleeping baby is essential for successful dream feeding. If getting your little one to sleep is a challenge, here are a few tips to ease the bedtime process:
- Swaddle Your Newborn: Swaddling can help create a sense of security, making them less likely to wake themselves up.
- Limit Daytime Naps: While naps are important, too much daytime sleep can hinder nighttime rest. Monitor nap lengths and timing to set your baby up for better sleep at night.
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Summary
Dream feeding is a helpful technique for new parents looking to maximize sleep by feeding their baby while they’re still asleep. This method can ease nighttime awakenings, ensure your baby consumes enough calories, and strengthen your bond. However, it’s essential to be aware of potential pitfalls, such as inadvertently waking your baby or creating new sleep associations. By implementing effective bedtime strategies, you can set the stage for smoother nights and more restful sleep.
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