Let's chat about how to gently wean off feeding to sleep. This is a natural and comforting way to settle your baby, but as they grow, you may want to help them learn to fall asleep without it. The good news? You can make this transition gently, without distress.
1. Introduce a Feed-Then-Sleep Routine
Shift the feed earlier in the bedtime routine. Instead of feeding as the last step, try feed → bath → pyjamas → story/song → bed or bath → pyjamas → feed → story/song → bed. This separates feeding from sleep while keeping it part of a calming routine.
2. Use Other Settling Techniques
Try gentle methods like shush-pat, rocking and include white noise to help your baby relax without relying solely on feeding. This teaches them there are other ways to fall asleep. Or you can simply place them into the cot awake (or even a bit drowsy when starting out) and see how they get on with putting themselves to sleep, most will surprise you, and very quickly!
3. Reduce Feeding Time Gradually
If you breastfeed or bottle-feed to sleep, slowly shorten the duration over several nights. Pair this with other settling techniques to help your baby adjust.
4. Encourage Self-Settling
If your baby stirs after you put them down, give them a chance to resettle. Stay nearby and offer reassurance with a gentle pat or shushing rather than immediately picking them up.
5. Be Patient & Consistent
Change takes time! Some nights will be easier than others, but staying consistent with your approach will help your baby learn this new way of falling asleep.
By making small adjustments at a pace that suits your baby, you can gently move away from feeding to sleep while still keeping bedtime a comforting and positive experience.
If you need personalised support, I’d love to help! Get in touch for tailored sleep guidance.
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