Common Sleep Myths #1

I am going to be starting a short series on Common Sleep Myths.

As we parent our children in regards to sleep, there is a myriad of information, recommendations, myths, rules and even legends! It can be tough to sort through and make sense of it all. In this series of blog posts I will respond to some of the most common Sleep Myths.

Sleep Myth #1

1.       Putting Rice Cereal in a Babies Bottle will help them Sleep Longer-

This one has been around for decades! Many studies have  proven that babies who were given rice cereal in their bottle did not sleep any longer than those who did. Some parents have even found the opposite to be true…. babies who were given too much rice cereal or were given rice cereal at a young age suffered from indigestion and tummy upset. Breast milk and/or formula provide every nutrient that our babies need, so giving them rice cereal early, especially before 4-6 months of age can cause other issues.

It is not uncommon or unreasonable for babies to need a feeding or two until around 9 months of age or so. But adding rice cereal will not help. Make sure you are getting your baby down for an early bedtime, being consistent with naps, watching their wake times and sleepy signs and this will help you get more consolidated night sleep from your little one.

We hope to Meet you in Dreamland!