A dream feed is typically discontinued for one of three reasons:
🍼 Once your baby reaches 6 months old, coinciding with the introduction of solids. This transition can be implemented gradually over a few weeks as their meal sizes increase and become established on 1-2 meals per day. At this stage, the dream feed is no longer necessary, as calories are replaced during the day with solids. Continuing the dream feed beyond this stage may disrupt their night sleep patterns and lead to additional wake ups. If your baby requires a night feed and is over 6 months, it is best to allow them to wake naturally, rather than scheduling a night feed.
🍼 If your baby starts waking for the dream feed or begins to wake earlier than their usual scheduled time for a dream feed. Over time, they may develop an early waking pattern, reducing the effectiveness of the dream feed.
🍼 If your baby wakes 1-2 hours after a dream feed, it suggests that they may not be having a full feed. In this instance, we recommend reverting to feeding on demand or at least 4 hours since their last feed depending on their age.
If your baby continues to wake frequently overnight and you need support in consolidating their sleep, book a consultation or download our sleep essentials guide via our website to help restore sleep for you and your family 💫🩷🌸