Impact of Distracted Feeds on Infant Sleep
Is your baby constantly turning away from milk to see what’s going on around them?
Do you feel they are snacking rather than taking full feeds?
Let me help you - read on to learn about ‘reverse cycling’ and methods for improving feeds during the day
Reverse cycling
Reverse cycling is where a baby feeds more frequently during the night than during the day. This often occurs when a baby is too distracted to feed well during the day or if they are experiencing a period of developmental change or teething that makes daytime feedings difficult. As a result, babies might wake up more often at night, seeking nourishment, and may be less inclined to take in full feedings during the day.
Reverse cycling is common for babies aged 4-8 months, as they are very interested in the world around them and are more likely to treat feeds as quick snacks throughout the day. Parents often see their baby begin to wake more in the night and seem to have gone back to newborn ways of waking 2-3 hourly overnight.
How to overcome distracted breast or bottle feeding
If you’re dealing with a distracted feeder, there are several strategies you can try to help your baby get the nutrition they need without disrupting their sleep patterns:
Create a Calm, Quiet Feeding Environment: Minimise distractions by feeding in a calm, quiet space. Dim the lights, turn off the TV or noise from your phone, and move away from conversations around you. This will help your baby focus on feeding instead of becoming overwhelmed by stimuli around them.
Establish a Consistent Feeding Routine: Babies thrive on routines, so try to feed your baby at the same time each day, preferably after naps when they are still sleepy. By sticking to a regular feeding schedule, you can help your baby anticipate when they’ll be fed, reducing the chances of them becoming overly hungry or overstimulated.
Address Developmental Changes or Teething: Babies go through various developmental milestones that may temporarily affect their feeding habits. During teething, for example, babies may be more fussy and less willing to nurse or bottle-feed. Be patient and try to comfort your baby in other ways, such as offering a teething ring, gel or offer pain relief such as paracetamol.
Monitor Reverse Cycling: If you notice your baby is reverse cycling—feeding more at night than during the day—it may be time to make adjustments to their daytime feeding routine. Try offering more frequent daytime feedings to help them get enough nutrition during the day. You can also try dream feeding—feeding your baby while they’re still asleep—before you go to bed, which may help bridge the gap and reduce nighttime feedings.
Distracted feeding can have a significant impact on your baby’s sleep, potentially leading to night wakes, reverse cycling, and difficulty settling. By creating a calm and consistent feeding routine, minimising distractions, and adjusting to your baby’s developmental needs, you can help your little one focus during feedings, improve their sleep, and establish a better nighttime routine.
Remember, feeding and sleep challenges are a normal part of early parenting, and with patience, consistency, and support, you can overcome these obstacles and help your baby sleep soundly.
Need more help with sleep?
If you feel stuck with your little one’s sleep and you’re not sure how to improve it, I’m here to help.
I have sleep guides that give you knowledge and techniques for common sleep disturbances. Find these here.
I also offer 1:1 sleep support where we work out a plan together to resolve and improve your baby or child’s sleep. For more information click here. For both sleep support packages, I look through a sleep diary that you provide, giving you advice on changes that should be made to the routine. The main difference between both my support packages is the coaching support following the consultation. Most of my clients want to see the changes (because they have tried everything and are exhausted!) so opt for my 2 week coaching support. I’m there each day to support you with the change.
Look here for past client testimonials and feedback.