Key takeaways: A dream feed is a feed given around 10 p.m. to midnight while your baby is still drowsy, aiming to stretch sleep into the night. Some families find it helpful, but there’s very little research on it. It works for some babies and not others. Always return your baby to their back in their own sleep space afterward.
The dream feed is a popular strategy for getting a longer stretch of sleep. Here’s what to know.
What It Is
Before you go to bed, you gently pick up your sleeping baby and feed them while they’re mostly asleep. The goal is to top up their tummy so they sleep longer while you sleep.
How to Do It
- Choose a time a few hours after your baby’s bedtime, often between 10 p.m. and midnight.
- Pick your baby up gently, keeping lights dim.
- Offer the breast or bottle. Many babies will latch or suck while drowsy.
- Burp if needed.
- Place your baby back on their back in their crib or bassinet.
From the author
From First Breath to First Birthday is my month-by-month guide to your baby’s first year, written as a NICU and postpartum nurse. My book covers sleep month by month, alongside feeding, growth and the warning signs that mean it’s time to call the doctor.
Does It Work?
There’s very little research on dream feeds specifically. Some families find it gives them a longer stretch of sleep, while others find their baby wakes anyway or becomes harder to settle. Try it for a few nights and see.
When It May Not Help
- If your baby wakes fully and becomes alert.
- If your baby then wakes at the same times anyway.
- If your baby isn’t interested in eating.
For Breastfeeding Parents
A dream feed may help you feel comfortable before bed. If you stop dream feeds, your body will adjust.
Stopping the Dream Feed
Many families drop it gradually by making it shorter or earlier.
The Bottom Line
Dream feeds help some families get a longer stretch of sleep. There’s little research, so try it and see what works for your baby.
Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.
Related Articles
- Night Weaning: When and How
- Night Nursing: Why It Matters and How to Rest
- “Drowsy but Awake”: What It Means and Does It Work?
- Short Naps: Why They Happen and What Helps
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics. Getting your baby to sleep. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org
- Mindell JA, Owens JA. A Clinical Guide to Pediatric Sleep. 3rd ed. Wolters Kluwer; 2015.
- Moon RY, Carlin RF, Hand I; Task Force on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome; Committee on Fetus and Newborn. Sleep-related infant deaths: updated 2022 recommendations for reducing infant deaths in the sleep environment. Pediatrics. 2022;150(1):e2022057990.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
