13/08/2024
I know that one of the biggest challenges of early parenthood is getting your little one to sleep through the night. It can be tempting to try just about anything to get a few more hours of shut-eye. One common myth that often pops up is that moving your baby to formula or solids earlier will magically help them sleep better. But I’m here to tell you, with all the love and understanding in the world, that this simply isn’t the case.
Let’s clear things up. Babies wake up during the night for all sorts of reasons, and hunger is just one small part of the equation. Sometimes, they just want a cuddle, sometimes they’re a bit uncomfortable, and sometimes they’re practising their future career as a 3 a.m. DJ. Introducing formula or solids before your baby is ready won’t necessarily make those night-time wake-ups disappear.
Research has shown that there’s no significant difference in sleep between babies who are exclusively breastfed and those who are formula-fed or have started solids. The truth is, babies have tiny tummies that need frequent refuelling, and their sleep cycles are naturally shorter than ours. It’s all perfectly normal, even if it’s not exactly convenient for your sleep schedule.
So, what can you do instead? Focus on creating a consistent, soothing bedtime routine, and ensure that your baby’s sleep environment is calm and comfortable. A little patience and a lot of love go a long way.
Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one might not work for another. But rest assured, moving to formula or solids early isn’t the magic sleep solution. Hang in there—you’re doing an amazing job, and this phase will pass (even if it doesn’t feel like it during those late-night.
DM me the word FEED if you want more info or just need a chat 🥰