Dream feeding
So what is dream feeding? The name itself sound mysterious and almost magical yet it is actually a very simple concept. The process involves feeding your baby whilst they’re still asleep to try and prevent them waking up due to hunger. It is something that is hailed by some parents but also criticised by many. As with most things when it comes to babies sleep this method will work well for some families and not at all for others.
Who can try dream feeding?
I suggest that families with children aged 0-7 months trial dream feeding if they are needing some sleep help. After this age your baby should be able to go longer stretches without feeding so the dream feed is not necessary. With every dream feed there is also an increased likelihood of waking your baby. Therefore it is likely that dream feeding will actually produce worse results than not doing so once your baby is 7 months old. I also only recommend doing a dream feed between 9 and 11pm at night. I suggest that parents try to time a dream feed with the same time they go up to bed.
How do you do it?
Dream feeding is in fact a very simple process. I suggest following these simple steps when giving it a go:
- Remember that the key focus is to not wake your baby fully so everything should be kept as non-stimulating as possible
- Keep the light & noise level the same when you go into the bedroom. Walk over to the cot as quietly as possible and gently lift your little one out.
- Hold them on your chest while you either breastfeed, chestfeed or bottle feed.
- If you can avoid you try not to talk, hum, shush or make any noise….. HOWEVER….If your baby starts to wake up then by all means, rock, shush, pat do all usual things to try and keep them asleep/drowsy
- Once you have fed your baby to the point where you feel they are not overly full but simply topped up gently place them back in the cot. When doing so I recommend placing your baby into the cot on his side and feet first to prevent the startle reflex before gently rolling him onto his back once lying down.
- If all goes to plan and your little one is still asleep I would now suggest that you get into bed and sleep before the next wake up.
We’ve given dream feeding a go but it didn’t work
Dream feeding will not work for every family and that perfectly ok. A method that works for someone will not work for another and that is normal! However, I do suggest that when trialling dream feeding you give it a go for 3-4 days before making a decision. By giving it a few days you will be able to know for certain if it works for you or not before you decide to stop.
You can watch my short instagram reels here summarising dream feeding:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ch9GLKogL2O/
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CiABhFegPof/
Helping your little one sleep longer stretches is a challenge for many parents. A sleep consultant will be able to provide you with a sleep plan that’s adapted to your routine. Book in your free 15 minute introductory call to hear how I can help your family with their sleep issues https://diddidreamers.co.uk/appointments/
Sending sweet dreams to you and your little ones
Emily
xxx