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How To Keep Your Kid Awake When Breastfeeding

by Yvette Manes

A lot of breastfed babies fall asleep while nursing. It can be a lifesaver to have a surefire way to get your little one to sleep. But, babies who are drowsy eaters, may not be getting a full feed. This may lead to short, round-the-clock nursing sessions which can be exhausting for mom and unsatisfying for baby. The good news is that there are a few tips on how to keep your kid awake when breastfeeding.

According to Baby Sleep Site, newborns naturally get drowsy while nursing, and it usually isn't a big concern unless the baby is not gaining weight or has jaundice. Today's Parent warned that in the early days, when babies are learning how to effectively nurse, they may get tired easily and fall asleep after a short period of sucking, or may quit in frustration. Some babies get the hang of breastfeeding right away, filling their bellies in five minutes and promptly dozing off. Others, however, struggle to nurse for 20 minutes and fall asleep still hungry. It may not be until several days later when you visit your pediatrician that you learn whether your baby is falling asleep because he's frustrated and not full. Here are some ways you can help keep your baby awake while breastfeeding.

1

Utalize Skin To Skin Contact

According to previous Baby Sleep Site article, even the sleepiest babies will be motivated to nurse more often and for longer periods if they are skin to skin on their mom’s chest. Remove your baby's clothes and hold him to your bare chest.

2

Switch Breasts, And Burp

When your baby starts to get drowsy or lose interest, Kelly Mom suggested switching breasts while nursing. It may need to be done every 30 to 60 seconds the first few times you do it, but you should begin to see a difference within a couple days. Burping your baby between breast changes can also help keep him awake.

3

Change Thier Diaper

My Baby Sleep Guide recommended changing your baby's diaper in the middle of a feeding to help rouse him. This can keep your baby up for the rest of his feeding.

4

Find A Cool, Damp Washcloth

You can use a cool, damp washcloth to wipe you baby's face or neck, according to Breastfeeding Basics.

5

Try The Football Hold

Kelly Mom noted that the clutch "football" hold is less sleep-inducing and can help your baby stay awake while nursing.

6

Tap, Touch, Or Massage Baby

You can tap your baby's hands or bottoms of his feet when you notice him falling asleep during nursing or bicycle his arms and legs. Touching your baby's cheek or gently massaging the crown of his head in a circular motion can help keep him awake, too, according to My Baby Sleep Guide.