My 4 month old daughter won’t stay focused when breastfeeding. She constantly pops off the breast and looks around and even plays and giggles. I’m concerned she won’t get full enough feedings. What can I do about this?
Around 4 months, babies become more curious and aware of their surroundings. They are learning new skills, such as sitting up and rolling over, so they will be interested in practicing those as well. Moms may wonder if their baby is paying attention long enough to get a full feeding.
Teething can also interfere with breastfeeding at this age. At four months, a baby can drink quite a bit of milk in just a few minutes, so she is most likely still getting enough milk.
Solutions:
- Nurse baby in a quiet, dimly lit room, away from other distractions.
- Cover baby with a light blanket or nursing cover during the feeding.
- Breastfeed while wearing baby in a sling.
- Bounce or rock in a chair while feeding.
- Change breastfeeding positions (lying down or baby sitting facing you).
- Interact by talking, singing and making eye contact with baby.
- Give baby a toy to play with or wear a chunky necklace.
- Nurse when baby is just waking or sleepy.
- Take advantage of nap time and night feedings, when baby is less distracted.
If baby consistently isn’t latching for full feedings, protect your milk supply by hand expressing or pumping. As your baby matures, she will learn to breastfeed without being so distracted.
SOURCE: https://kellymom.com/ages/older-infant/distractible-baby/