It's possible to offer a brief feed to your baby while they are still mostly asleep, often called a "dream feed." Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
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Timing is Key: Gently take your baby out of the bassinet or crib between 10 pm and 12 am, or whenever you go to bed. This is the ideal window for a dream feed, as it can help them sleep longer through the night (Reference 1).
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Keep Baby Comfortable: Maintain a calm and familiar environment. Keep your baby swaddled to help them stay relaxed and less likely to fully wake up (Reference 2).
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Stimulate Feeding Reflex: Gently touch your baby's cheek with your breast or the bottle nipple. This should trigger their rooting reflex, encouraging them to open their mouth (Reference 3).
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Offer a Brief Feed: Allow your baby to feed briefly. The goal isn't to provide a full feeding, just enough to top them off and hopefully extend their sleep. Monitor their cues; if they are actively refusing, don't force it (Reference 4).
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Burp Your Baby: After the brief feed, gently burp your baby to release any trapped air. This helps prevent discomfort that could wake them up later (Reference 5).
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Timing | Between 10 PM and 12 AM or when you go to bed. |
| 2. Swaddling | Keep your baby swaddled. |
| 3. Stimulate | Touch your baby's cheek with breast or bottle. |
| 4. Brief Feed | Offer a small amount of milk. |
| 5. Burp | Gently burp your baby to release any air. |
Important Considerations:
- Not for All Babies: Dream feeding isn't necessary or appropriate for every baby. Some babies sleep better when not disturbed. Consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice.
- Observe Your Baby's Cues: If your baby consistently refuses the dream feed or wakes up fully and becomes upset, it might not be the right approach for them.
- Hygiene: Ensure both your hands and the feeding equipment are clean before starting.
