Boosting Baby's Sleep: The Benefits of Dream Feeds and Bedtime Snacks

The concept of a dream feed is a popular strategy for helping younger babies sleep longer stretches during the night. Here’s how it works: you gently feed your baby while they are still in a semi-asleep state, usually just before you go to bed. The idea is that this feeding, often given late in the evening (between 10 PM and midnight), tops up their hunger so they don’t wake up as soon to feed. It can be particularly helpful for babies who wake up frequently at night. This technique may give parents a few extra hours of sleep, as the baby remains content for a longer period.

As babies grow, their nutritional needs increase, especially during growth spurts. For older babies (around 6 months and up), a small snack before bedtime can help them feel more satisfied throughout the night. Growth spurts often increase their appetite, and a light snack like oatmeal, mashed banana, or even some whole milk yogurt can give them a bit more sustenance. This can lead to a more restful night, as the baby is less likely to wake due to hunger.

The key is to ensure that the snack is nutritious and easy to digest, so it doesn’t interfere with their sleep. Avoiding heavy or sugary foods is important to prevent digestion issues or disruptions to their sleep cycle.

In short:

• Dream feeds are for younger babies and involve feeding while they’re semi-asleep to extend their sleep time.
• Bedtime snacks are more relevant for older babies and toddlers, especially during growth spurts, to keep them fuller and more settled during the night.