Sunday Sleep Dilemma

Q: Can I just let my infant sleep for a five hour stretch during the day without feeding her?

A: I would not do this. I did this with my first baby, and it was great to have that long break, but she was not a good sleeper at night or during the day. I had to work pretty hard to get her to become a good sleeper. I really think there is something to feeding on a schedule (use the word loosely). If you wait five hours- it is like you are pretty much skipping a feeding.

With my next two babies, I would feed them every three hours- if they were not awake I would feed them in their sleep. Both of them were much better sleepers day and night. I have known many other moms who have fed on a schedule and everyone of them has found success in sleep and always had a well-fed baby.

Note: This isn't to say there weren't times that I fed extra or for comfort. You know your baby and their needs best.