Paced Feeding
Respecting your Baby’s Feeding Experience
The feeding process is very complex. It is more than putting food in the mouth and magically it makes its way to our tummy. Many sensory and motor inputs are required to successfully and SAFELY extract and transport milk. The suck-swallow-breathe process is one of the most vital arrangements and must be highly coordinated feeding. So what are co-regulated approached feedings? Co-regulation approaches incorporate warm and responsive interaction where the parent/caretaker is attuned to the wants and needs of the child, and shift accordingly.
Paced Bottle Feeding
Paced Bottle Feeding is a method of bottle feeding that allows the infant to be more in control of the feeding pace. This feeding method slows down the flow of milk into the nipple and the mouth, allowing the baby to eat more slowly, and take breaks. Paced feeding reduces the risk of overfeeding that may result in discomfort to the baby. Paced feedings are an example of co-regulated feedings (a feeding that is controlled by both parent and baby, and not just parent). A paced feed method helps to prevent the potential to overfeed and overwhelm baby, allowing the baby to be in more control. It is useful to learn this technique when using a bottle of breastmilk or formula.
How does Paced Feeding Work?
Use slow flow nipple.
Feed based on cues, not set schedule.
Position feeds in an upright or almost sitting position.
Ensure mouth placement on nipple is good.
Encourage baby to pause and rest, and begin sucking when he is ready.
Avoid forcing baby to finish bottle. Feed in smaller amounts if worried about that precious liquid gold.
This is just one simple way of respecting your baby’s feeding experience and acknowledging the work your baby is putting in. We all deserve to experience pleasant feeding experiences.
Is it Necessary?
Putting more power into the hands of your baby is an exciting way to feed. Not only are they controlling their feeding process, but they are strengthening and developing their muscles. Overfeeding also causes discomfort, pace feeding combats this. It also sets the tone for a positive experience to continue when solids are eventually introduced.
