From the Guidelines
Most babies can sleep through the night without waking for feedings when they reach about 4-6 months of age, as their digestive systems mature and they can store more calories, allowing them to go longer between meals, as suggested by the guidelines for infancy (0–12 months) 1. When considering letting a baby sleep through the night, it's essential to evaluate their individual development and growth. According to the pediatric health guidelines, by 2 months, infants feed about every 3–4 h, taking 3–4 oz per feed, and by 6+ months, infants typically feed every 4–5 h at each of 3–5 feedings per 24 h 1. Key factors to consider before allowing a baby to sleep through the night include:
- The baby's weight, with most pediatricians recommending a minimum weight of 12-13 pounds
- The baby's overall growth and development, including doubling their birth weight and consuming enough calories during daytime feedings
- The baby's interest in night feedings, with some babies showing less interest as they get older
- The type of feeding, with breastfed babies potentially needing night feedings slightly longer than formula-fed babies It's crucial to consult with a pediatrician to determine the best approach for each individual baby, as some may still need night feedings beyond 6 months, especially during growth spurts or if they were born prematurely. Signs that a baby may be ready to sleep through the night include sleeping 6-8 hours straight without waking to eat on their own, which can indicate that they are developmentally ready to go longer between meals.
From the Research
Feeding Schedule for Babies
There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as the provided studies do not discuss baby sleep patterns or feeding schedules.