Just starting at 11 1/2 weeks

[katyh]

Charlie is nearly 12 weeks now (6lb 13 when born) and we're just starting EASY after buying the book yesterday in desperation!
Previously I was following the general eat/activity/sleep formula as a friend had suggested it and he was going anywhere between 3 and 5 hours between feeds (bf on demand). He knows when it's night and settled reasonably by himself up  until a few days ago. He rarely settles for a nap during the day without a fight unless in the pram or sling when he will sleep until he's starving and wake up screaming. Otherwise a happy, smiley baby who loves his baths!

The last few days he's been waking in the night every hour or so (although only feeding twice) and settles only when cuddled to sleep. In exhausted desperation I took him into bed at least once a night so we could both sleep (Iknow, I know!) and now that's the only way he sleeps more than an hour.

Sh/pat is wonderful - we've tried it today and he's settled himself for a daytime nap for the first time EVER!

My question is really how do I start? I tried the 3hour EASY today but should he be on the 4hour one as he's nearly 3 months? Should I stick to the plan to the letter until we're both used to it and can work out our own? If he wakes during the night and I'm not sure if he's hungry or not should I sh/pat him to see if he settles?

Any help greatly appreciated
Katy

[meltown]

Welcome to BW!!!!  Glad you found us.
is your LO bottle fed or BF?  is BF then 3 hour is perfect for your LO. 

as for the night wakings,  I woudl say if it has been more then 3 or 4 hours then go ahead and feed.  if not then do shh/pat back to sleep.  they will slowly get less and less frequent if oyou do this. 

I would try to stick with the plan until you feel comfortable with it.  this will help you in learning cues and cry's of your O.  you don't have to go completely byt he cock but look for tired cues around the time it says it is time for a nap.  that way as you learn your LO you can slowly not watch the clock as much.