Navigating life with your little one is exciting but comes with its fair share of challenges, especially during those late-night feeds. As a new parent, we understand that sleep deprivation can feel like a never-ending tunnel, but fear not - we've got your back. Here are seven tips to help you not only survive but master the night feeds, ensuring both you and your little one get the rest you need.
Create a Cosy Feeding Environment
Set the stage for successful night feeds by creating a comfortable and cosy feeding area. Set up a comfy chair or nursing pillow in a quiet corner of the room. Dim the lights to create a soothing atmosphere that signals to your baby that its downtime. It's also a good idea to make up a small table of essentials nearby with a water bottle, snacks, and a good book to keep you company during those quiet feeding moments.
Develop a Relaxing Nighttime Routine
Establishing a nighttime routine can work wonders in signalling to your baby that it's time for sleep. Begin by dimming the lights about 30 minutes before the feed. Engage in calming activities such as gentle rocking or singing a lullaby. This routine can help your baby associate these cues with bedtime, making it easier for them to settle back to sleep after the feed.
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Embrace the Preparation
The last thing you want is to be trying to get everything together during the night while it's dark and your little one is hungry. Make the night feeds more manageable by having everything you need within arm's reach. From prep machines and formula to burp cloths and bibs, having it all in one place can make things much more manageable. Plus, don't forget a coy blanket or dressing gown to keep toasty warm - you might be sat there for a while! This saves you from stumbling around in the dark and streamlines the process, meaning your little one gets their much-anticipated milk that bit sooner!
Limit Interaction
It's easy to start chatting away once you're feeding and face-to-face with your little one. This can prevent your little one from dozing back off to sleep and can actually keep them awake and stimulated, making it more of a challenge to get them to settle.
Sing a gentle lullaby while you feed or shush them back off to sleep, but try to avoid too much speaking or funny faces that will indicate it's time for play.
Find the Right Feeding Position
Don't be afraid to experiment with different feeding positions to find what works best for you and your baby, even if you've found one that works well enough for you both. Whether it's the classic cradle hold, football hold, or a side-lying position, finding a comfortable position can make a world of difference during those nighttime feeds. Make sure you have plenty of supportive pillows and are sat in a comfortable chair to maintain good posture and reduce strain on your back.
Share the Nighttime Duties
Don't hesitate to enlist the help of your partner or a family member for night feed assistance. Sharing nighttime duties can provide much-needed breaks, allowing you to catch up on sleep and maintain your well-being without feeling constantly on call. If you're formula feeding, try to do this from day one so it becomes the norm. If you're breastfeeding, consider pumping and storing breast milk so your partner can take on some of the feeding responsibilities, giving you the chance to recharge.
Find the Right Attire
When it comes to nighttime feeds, what you wear matters. Opt for comfortable and practical pyjamas that allow for easy access during feeds. Invest in nursing-friendly pyjamas or nighties with convenient openings that make feeding hassle-free, and find the right nursing bra for you. Plus, you'll likely be awake and sitting on your feeding chair for a decent chunk of time each night, so make sure you're comfortable and warm enough.
Head here for more on finding a feeding position that works for you.
