The core night method is a strategy to help your baby sleep longer at night, particularly when they’re gradually showing readiness to sleep for longer periods without requiring nighttime feedings. When your baby sleeps for a certain duration through the night (known as the “core night”) for 3-4 consecutive nights, you can stop feeding them during this time. So, this method is also one approach to achieve night weaning.
Before you try this method, consider the following:
1. Your baby should be at least 6 weeks old, weigh 10 pounds (4.54 kg), and demonstrate steady weight gain.
2. Your baby should have a well-established daytime routine.
3. Ensure that the last feeding of the night provides enough nourishment to support your baby’s desired sleep duration.
This method is most effective when your baby wakes up at night for a feed but doesn’t feed well during this time or in the morning. If your baby wakes during the core night hours, you can let them settle on their own for a few minutes. If self-setting isn’t effective, you can try non-feeding methods, such as a pacifier, a sip of water, gentle comforting like shush-pat, or pick up/ pick down to help them sleep. In case these methods don’t soothe your baby, then offer the shortest feed necessary to help them settle down.