When to Drop the Dream Feed?

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Posted Sep 23, 2022

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The question of when to drop the dream feed is a difficult one. There are a few schools of thought on the matter. Some parents feel that it is best to drop the dream feed as soon as their baby is sleeping through the night. This way, the baby can get all the nutrition they need during the day and will be less likely to wake up at night. Others feel that it is best to keep the dream feed until the baby is a bit older and can go longer periods of time without eating. This allows the baby to get the nutrition they need while also getting a bit more sleep. Ultimately, the decision of when to drop the dream feed is a personal one and should be based on what is best for the individual family.

When should you drop the dream feed?

The dream feed is a great tool for new parents. It can help your baby sleep through the night and give you some much-needed rest. However, there are a few things to consider before you drop the dream feed.

First, you need to think about whether or not your baby is ready to sleep through the night. If your baby is still waking up frequently during the night, then the dream feed may not be right for them. You also need to consider how well your baby is eating during the day. If your baby is not getting enough food during the day, then they may need the dream feed to help them get enough calories.

If you decide that your baby is ready to sleep through the night and they are getting enough food during the day, then you can start to slowly drop the dream feed. Start by skipping one night, and then gradually increase the interval between dream feeds. You can also try giving your baby a smaller amount of formula or breast milk during the dream feed. Once you have completely dropped the dream feed, you may find that your baby sleeps better and longer through the night.

What are the benefits of dropping the dream feed?

There are many benefits to dropping the dream feed, which is when a baby is fed while they are asleep. One benefit is that it can help the baby sleep through the night. Another benefit is that it can help the baby be more alert and responsive during the day. It can also help the baby to gain weight and to develop a regular sleep cycle.

Are there any risks associated with dropping the dream feed?

The dream feed is the final feed of the night, typically given around 10-11pm. It is designed to help baby sleep through the night by ‘topping them up’ before they enter a long period of sleep. Some parents choose to drop the dream feed, for a variety of reasons. There are a few risks associated with this decision that should be considered.

The first risk is that baby may wake more during the night. Without the top-up from the dream feed, baby may need to wake more during the night in order to feed. This can lead to more night wakings overall and may impact baby’s (and parents’) ability to get a good night’s sleep.

The second risk is that baby may start to feed more during the day. This is because they are not getting that top-up at night, so they may make up for it during the day. This could impact baby’s daytime sleep or disrupt their natural feeding pattern.

The third risk is that baby may not get enough calories if they are not able to feed during the night. This is because the dream feed is typically given after baby has had a long period of sleep and is due for a feed. If baby is not able to feed during this time, they may not be getting the calories they need to grow and develop properly.

Overall, there are a few risks associated with dropping the dream feed. However, these risks should be considered in light of each individual family’s situation. Some families may find that the benefits of dropping the dream feed outweigh the risks, while others may decide that the risks are too great. Ultimately, the decision should be made based on what is best for baby and the family as a whole.

How will you know when your baby is ready to drop the dream feed?

As your baby grows, they will gradually start to sleep for longer periods at night. You may find that your baby starts to sleep through the night without needing a feed. This is typically around the 4-6 month mark.

There are a few things you can look for to know when your baby is ready to drop the dream feed. First, your baby should be able to sleep for at least 5 hours at a time without waking up. Second, your baby should be able to eat at least 6 ounces per feeding during the day. Lastly, your baby should be at least 4 months old.

If you baby meets all of these criteria, then they are likely ready to drop the dream feed. Of course, every baby is different and you should always consult with your pediatrician before making any changes to your baby's feeding schedule.

What are some signs that your baby is no longer interested in the dream feed?

The dream feed is a bedtime feeding given to babies who are sleeping through the night. It is typically given around 10pm, after the baby has been asleep for several hours. The aim of the dream feed is to top-up the baby's tummy before they sleep for the entire night, so that they wake up feeling satisfied and well-rested.

There are a few key signs that your baby is no longer interested in the dream feed. Firstly, they may start sleeping through the night without waking for a feed. Secondly, they may start waking earlier in the morning, before the usual time for the dream feed. Finally, they may start rejecting the dream feed when offered it, turning their head away or pushing the bottle away.

If you notice any of these signs, it is likely that your baby is no longer interested in the dream feed and is sleeping through the night without it.

How do you gradually reduce the dream feed?

It is generally recommended that you begin to wean your baby off the dream feed by slowly reducing the amount you offer at each feeding. For example, if you currently offer 4 ounces (120 ml) of formula or breastmilk during the dream feed, you would reduce this to 3 ounces (90 ml) over the course of a few days or a week. You can then continue to reduce the amount until you reach 1 ounce (30 ml) or your baby no longer seems interested.

It's important to remember that dream feeds are not essential, and you may find that your baby is perfectly happy sleeping through the night without them. If you do decide to wean your baby off the dream feed, do so gradually to avoid upsetting their tummy or disrupting their sleep.

What should you do if your baby wakes up during the night after you've dropped the dream feed?

If your baby wakes up during the night after you've dropped the dream feed, don't worry! There are a few things you can do to help your baby get back to sleep.

First, try not to pick your baby up if they cry. This can be difficult, but it's important to let your baby cry it out a bit if they're waking up during the night. Instead, try to soothe your baby by rubbing their back or speaking calmly to them.

If your baby is still awake after a few minutes, you can try giving them a pacifier or offering them a small amount of water. Sometimes, these things can help babies fall back asleep.

If your baby is still awake and crying, you may need to feed them. However, try to only feed them a small amount, as too much food can cause them to wake up again later.

finally, if nothing else seems to work, you can try holding your baby until they fall back asleep. This may be the most difficult option, but sometimes it's necessary.

If your baby is waking up during the night, don't panic! There are a few things you can try to help them get back to sleep. With a little patience, your baby will be back to sleeping through the night in no time.

Can you drop the dream feed cold turkey?

If you're considering whether or not to drop the dream feed for your baby, there are a few things you should know. First, dream feeds can be beneficial for both baby and mom. They can help baby sleep longer at night and can help mom get some much-needed rest. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.

One potential drawback of dream feeds is that they can disrupt baby's natural sleep patterns. If baby is used to having a dream feed every night, he may start to expect it and wake up when it's time for the feed, even if he's not really hungry. This can lead to baby waking up more often at night, which can be difficult for both baby and mom.

another potential issue is that dream feeds can sometimes cause baby to overeat. If baby is getting too much milk during the dream feed, he may not be hungry for solid food during the day. This can lead to weight gain and/or digestive issues.

Overall, there are pros and cons to dropping the dream feed. It's important to weigh all of the factors and make the decision that's best for you and your family.

What are some alternative ways to help your baby sleep through the night?

There are many alternative ways to help your baby sleep through the night. One way is to swaddle your baby in a blanket. This will help your baby feel secure and warm. Another way is to rock your baby in a rocking chair or cradle. This will help your baby to fall asleep. You can also try to use a pacifier to help your baby fall asleep. If you are breastfeeding, you can try to nurse your baby to sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dream feed and when should I stop?

A dream feed is the last feed that you drop. You usually drop the dream feed when baby sleeps from bedtime until their morning wake time with only the dream feed. This should be dropped by 6 months.

What age can you start Dream feeding?

It is not too late to start using a Dream Feed even at 6 months old. Many babies will increase their caloric needs around this time.

How to give your baby a dream feed?

Settle your baby in their crib or bassinet, making sure they are comfortable. You may want to put a security blanket over them and/or sing them a lullaby. Center your baby's head on your breast (without taking off their clothes) so that they can latch on and feed. Don't fret if your baby only feeds for a short period of time; it's typical for newborns to feed sporadically during the night. Be patient and let nature take its course!

When should I drop the dreamfeed?

It is best to drop the dreamfeed when your baby starts sleeping for stretches at least eight hours through the night. If your baby sleeps for six or more hours at a time without waking up, it's safe to try to drop the dreamfeed.

When can I stop the dream feed?

When your baby is sleeping until 7am for five nights out of seven.'

Alan Bianco

Junior Writer

Alan Bianco is an accomplished article author and content creator with over 10 years of experience in the field. He has written extensively on a range of topics, from finance and business to technology and travel. After obtaining a degree in journalism, he pursued a career as a freelance writer, beginning his professional journey by contributing to various online magazines.