Your baby only sleeps when held? Welcome to the club! If you're reading this while your little one is snoozing peacefully in your arms (and you're desperately trying not to move a single muscle), then this article is for you. Let's talk about why your baby only wants to sleep on you and what you can actually do about it - without any cry-it-out nonsense.

I remember those early days with my daughter so vividly. The moment I would try to transfer her from my arms to the crib, her eyes would pop wide open as if I had just dropped her into a pool of ice-cold water. Every. Single. Time.

And don't even get me started on the "put them down drowsy but awake" advice. Drowsy but awake? More like drowsy but WIDE AWAKE AND SCREAMING the second their back touched that mattress.

So there I was, trapped under a sleeping baby for hours on end, afraid to breathe too loudly. I binged entire Netflix series. I became a master at eating with one hand. I held my pee for way longer than medically advisable.

Sound familiar?

If you're wondering whether your baby will ever sleep anywhere other than your arms, I have good news for you: they will. Eventually. But until then, let's dive into why this happens and what you can do about it without losing your mind (or your baby's trust).

Table of Contents

1. Why Does My Baby Only Sleep When Held?
2. Is It Bad That My Baby Only Sleeps In My Arms?
3. The Biology Behind Contact Sleeping
4. When Do Babies Grow Out Of This?
5. Gentle Ways To Help Your Baby Sleep Independently
6. What NOT To Do
7. When Contact Sleeping Is Actually The Answer
8. Conclusion
9. FAQs

1. Why Does My Baby Only Sleep When Held?

First things first: your baby is not broken. They're not "spoiled." And you definitely haven't created a "bad habit." Your baby is simply being... a baby.

Here's the thing. For nine whole months, your little one was snuggled up inside you. They were warm, cozy, and constantly rocked by your movements. They heard your heartbeat 24/7. They never knew what it was like to be alone.

And then suddenly - boom! - they're out in this big, cold, quiet world where they're expected to sleep alone in a flat, still crib. From their perspective, that's kind of terrifying.

So when your baby only wants to sleep in your arms, they're not being difficult. They're seeking what feels safe and familiar.

Here are the main reasons why babies prefer to sleep when held:

The Fourth Trimester Effect

The first three months after birth are often called the "fourth trimester" because babies are still adjusting to life outside the womb. During this time, they crave the sensations they experienced before birth - warmth, movement, closeness, and the sound of your heartbeat.

Immature Nervous System

Newborns have an immature nervous system that makes them startle easily. You know that adorable (but also super annoying) reflex where their arms fly out and they wake themselves up? That's the Moro reflex, and it can jolt them awake the second you try to put them down.

Separation Anxiety

As babies get older, around 8 months, separation anxiety kicks in. They become very aware that you are a separate person from them - and they do NOT like that one bit.

They Can Smell You

Babies have an incredible sense of smell. They can literally smell when you're near and when you're not. So when you put them down, they notice your scent is gone.

Sleep Cycles

Babies have much shorter sleep cycles than adults (around 45-50 minutes). They spend more time in light sleep, which means they wake more easily. When they're in your arms, they might rouse slightly and then settle right back down because they feel secure. In the crib? Not so much.

2. Is It Bad That My Baby Only Sleeps In My Arms?

Short answer: No.

Longer answer: It depends on who you ask - but I say no.

There's this pervasive idea in our culture that babies need to learn to sleep independently as soon as possible, or else... what? They'll be sleeping in your bed when they're 18? Spoiler alert: they won't.

The truth is that contact sleeping is biologically normal. Throughout human history, babies have slept close to their caregivers. The expectation that infants should sleep alone in a separate room is actually quite new in the grand scheme of things.

Research shows that babies who are held frequently and whose needs are met consistently actually develop MORE independence over time, not less. They feel secure, so they're eventually able to venture out on their own.

That said, I get it. Contact sleeping can be exhausting. You can't do anything else. Your arms fall asleep. You develop a permanent neck crick. You haven't showered in days because you literally cannot put this baby down.

So while there's nothing wrong with contact sleeping from your baby's perspective, your needs matter too. And it's okay to gently work toward helping your baby sleep in other places - when you're both ready.

3. The Biology Behind Contact Sleeping

Let me put on my nerdy hat for a second, because understanding the science behind this can actually help you feel better about the whole situation.

Cortisol and Stress Regulation

Babies cannot regulate their own stress hormones. When they're separated from you, their cortisol levels rise. Being held helps keep those stress hormones in check, which leads to better, deeper sleep.

Oxytocin: The Cuddle Hormone

When you hold your baby, both of you release oxytocin - the bonding hormone. This makes both of you feel calm and relaxed. It's basically nature's way of encouraging closeness.

Body Temperature Regulation

Young babies struggle to regulate their own body temperature. Your body heat helps keep them at the perfect temperature for sleep.

Heart Rate and Breathing

Studies have shown that babies who sleep in contact with their caregivers have more stable heart rates and breathing patterns. Your body literally helps regulate their vital functions.

So basically, your baby wants to sleep on you because their body knows it's the safest, most regulated place to be. Pretty smart, actually.

4. When Do Babies Grow Out Of This?

I know, I know. You want a timeline. You want to know WHEN this will end.

Here's the honest truth: it varies. A lot.

Some babies start accepting the crib around 3-4 months when they develop more regular sleep patterns and their nervous system matures a bit.

Other babies (like my son, bless his clingy little heart) might prefer contact sleeping well into toddlerhood.

Generally speaking, you can expect some improvement around these ages:

• 3-4 months: Circadian rhythm develops, sleep becomes more predictable
• 5-6 months: Moro reflex fades, less startling awake
• 8-12 months: Object permanence develops (they start understanding you still exist even when they can't see you)
• 12-18 months: Many toddlers become more accepting of sleeping in their own space

But please don't take these as hard rules. Your baby might hit these milestones earlier or later - and both are completely normal.

The important thing to remember is that this phase WILL end. No child sleeps in their parent's arms forever (even if it feels like yours might be the exception).

5. Gentle Ways To Help Your Baby Sleep Independently

Alright, let's get practical. If you're ready to gently encourage your baby to sleep in other places, here are some strategies that don't involve leaving your baby to cry alone.

The Warm Crib Trick

Before transferring your baby, warm up the crib with a heating pad or warm water bottle (remove it before putting baby down, obviously). The sudden cold of the mattress is often what wakes them.

Master The Transfer

The transfer is an art form. Here's what worked for me:

• Wait until baby is in deep sleep (limp limbs, slow breathing, no eye movement)
• Lower them VERY slowly, bum first
• Keep your hands on them for a few minutes
• Slowly slide your hands out
• Don't make eye contact (seriously, it's like they have a sixth sense)

The Butt Pat

Once baby is down, gently pat their bum or side rhythmically. This mimics the motion they felt in the womb and can help them stay settled.

Swaddling

For young babies (before they start rolling), a good swaddle can work wonders. It prevents the startle reflex and creates that snug, held feeling.

White Noise

White noise mimics the whooshing sounds baby heard in the womb. It's like auditory comfort food for them. Keep it running throughout the entire nap or night.

Your Scent

Try sleeping with the crib sheet for a night before using it, so it smells like you. Some parents also leave a worn (safe, small) piece of clothing in the crib.

Practice During The Easiest Nap

Start with the first nap of the day when sleep pressure is highest. Baby is more likely to accept the crib when they're really tired.

The Side-Lying Position

If you're breastfeeding, try nursing in the side-lying position in your bed and then slowly inching away once baby is asleep. (Follow safe sleep guidelines if you do this.)

Gradual Transition

You don't have to go from "always held" to "crib" overnight. Try intermediate steps:

• Held → Baby carrier while you move around
• Carrier → Stroller
• Stroller → Swing or bouncer (supervised)
• Swing → Crib

Contact Napping Isn't All or Nothing

If your baby will do ONE nap in the crib, that's a win. They don't have to sleep independently for every single sleep. One crib nap a day plus contact naps for the rest is totally fine.

6. What NOT To Do

I wouldn't be The Baby Way if I didn't tell you what to avoid.

Don't Leave Your Baby To Cry Alone

I know, some "experts" say this is the only way babies learn to sleep independently. But research shows that babies don't actually learn to "self-soothe" when left to cry - they just learn that no one is coming.

If a sleep consultant tells you to put your baby down and not respond to their cries, run. Run fast.

Don't Rush It

There's no deadline. Your baby doesn't need to sleep independently by any specific age. Trying to force it before they're ready usually backfires anyway.

Don't Compare

Your friend's baby slept through the night in their crib at 8 weeks? Good for them. That tells you nothing about YOUR baby. Every baby is different.

Don't Blame Yourself

You didn't "create" this by holding your baby too much. You responded to your baby's needs. That's called being a good parent.

7. When Contact Sleeping Is Actually The Answer

Here's something that might surprise you: sometimes the best solution to "my baby only sleeps when held" is to... just keep holding them.

Revolutionary, I know.

But hear me out. Contact sleeping:

• Promotes bonding
• Supports breastfeeding
• Helps regulate baby's physiological functions
• Gives you time to rest (even if not sleep)
• Will not last forever

If contact sleeping is working for your family - if you're getting enough rest, if you're not miserable, if everyone is functioning - then there's no reason to change anything just because society tells you your baby "should" be sleeping alone.

Babywearing can make contact naps more practical. Pop your baby in a carrier and suddenly you have two hands! You can do things! Sort of!

There's also something to be said for just leaning into this phase. It won't last forever. One day you'll put your baby down and they'll just... stay asleep. And eventually, they'll be a teenager who won't want to be in the same room as you.

So maybe, just maybe, it's okay to enjoy the cuddles while they last.

8. Conclusion

If your baby only sleeps when held, you're not alone. According to surveys, about 72% of parents report the same thing in the first few months. It's one of the most Googled baby sleep questions for a reason.

Your baby isn't manipulating you. They're not spoiled. They're simply seeking the safety and comfort that your arms provide.

Will they sleep independently eventually? Yes. Absolutely.

Do you have to sleep train or use cry-it-out methods to get there? Absolutely not.

Try the gentle strategies I mentioned if you're ready. Or don't, if contact sleeping is working for you. There's no right answer here - just what works for your family.

And in the meantime, download some good shows, perfect your one-handed snacking technique, and try to enjoy the snuggles. These days are long, but they're also fleeting.

9. FAQs

1. Will holding my baby to sleep create a bad habit?

No. Meeting your baby's needs for closeness does not create "bad habits." It creates secure attachment, which actually leads to MORE independence later. Your baby will not need to be held to sleep forever.

2. My baby is 6 months old and still won't sleep unless held. Is this normal?

Yes! Many babies prefer contact sleeping well into their first year and beyond. Six months is still very young. Their need for closeness is completely developmentally appropriate.

3. Should I sleep train my baby to break this habit?

Only if you want to. Sleep training is not necessary for babies to eventually sleep independently. If cry-it-out methods don't feel right to you, trust that instinct. There are gentler ways to encourage independent sleep - or you can wait it out entirely.

4. Is it safe to let my baby sleep on me?

Contact sleeping is safe as long as you're awake and alert. The risk comes if you fall asleep while holding baby, especially on a sofa or recliner. If you're exhausted, it's safer to set up a safe sleep space (firm mattress, no pillows/blankets, away from edges) and lie down with baby there, rather than risk falling asleep on the couch.

5. Why does my baby wake up the second I put them down?

Babies can sense the change in temperature, position, and your presence. They also startle easily due to the Moro reflex. Try warming the sleep surface, transferring during deep sleep, and keeping your hand on them for a few minutes after putting them down.

6. My partner can put the baby down but I can't. Why?

This is SO common, especially with breastfeeding moms. Baby can smell your milk and knows comfort is literally right there. Sometimes having a non-breastfeeding partner do the transfer helps. It's not personal - your baby just really, really loves you (and your boobs).

We all know that the nighttime struggle to keep our babies warm and snug can be real. You keep wondering all night if they are cold and check their hands and face every time you wake up. Getting the temperature right for your little one sometimes feels trickier than solving a math problem. But don't worry, it's actually no big science. In this article, we will learn about all the common signs your baby might be cold and how to dress them appropriately for sleep.

I vividly remember the first nights at home with my baby. Not only was I extremely sleep-deprived from all the night feeds, but I was also constantly worrying that my baby was cold at night. Every time I slightly woke up (even though I am pretty sure I didn't sleep at all), I would touch her hands, feet, and neck, trying to figure out if she was cold. And still, I couldn't really tell for sure.

And that continued throughout the whole winter. I also believe it contributed to me even sleeping worse because every time I woke up, I had this urge to check on my baby. So, in the end, not only did night feedings wake me up, but also the thought of a potentially freezing baby.

LEARN MORE >>

Maybe you're just like me and experience exactly the same as I was, constantly finding yourself checking for your baby or toddler. But I can tell you that you can get over this struggle quite easily.

In this article, I will help you decode the signs your baby might feel chilly at night. I'll give you some practical tips to ensure your baby stays cozy and warm so you no longer have to worry!

1. Why Temperature Matters For Babies

Babies cannot regulate their body temperature as well as adults can. Unlike adults, babies have a larger body surface area relative to their body mass, which makes them more susceptible to temperature changes. Additionally, newborns have less body fat insulation, which can further affect their ability to maintain a stable temperature.

So to compensate, babies rely on external sources of warmth, meaning they need to be dressed the right way. If your little one is too cold or hot at night, it can lead to more frequent wakeups.

BTW, being cold does not cause your baby to get sick or catch a cold! Infections are caused by viruses and bacteria. Only if your baby already has a virus being cold can weaken the immune system and make the symptoms of the cold appear or intensify.

Related Article: Ultimate Newborn Sleep Tips That Are Super Easy To Implement

2. Signs Your Baby Is Cold At Night

Unless your baby is really freezing (which is usually not the case), these are the two main ways to tell whether your baby is cold:

1. Cool neck or chest

A very efficient way to find out whether your baby is hot or cold is to check their chest or the back of their neck. It should be slightly warm but not sticky or sweaty. If their neck or chest feels cold, it is probably a little bit too chilly for them, and they need an extra layer of clothing.

2. Restlessness or frequent wakings

Babies are very perceptive to temperature changes. That's why your baby will most definitely wake up more frequently when they are feeling cold. If they are sleeping fine (or, let's say, like a baby), they are probably not cold.

Instinctively you may first check your baby's hands or feet. But the truth is that your baby's hands or feet are actually bad indicators to tell whether your baby is cold or not. They are often exposed and hence will naturally have a lower temperature. So, if your baby has cold hands or feet, it doesn't mean your baby is too cold!

Here are some other signs indicating that your baby might be cold at night:

• their skin is pale or bluish
• they are shivering
• they are very sleepy or hard to arouse
• they feed poorly
• clenched fists

However, it should be mentioned that in these cases, your baby would be really, really cold, something that usually does not happen.

Related Article: Is Your Baby A Light Sleeper? 9 Solutions To Get Them To Sleep & Stay Asleep

3. Signs Your Baby Is Hot At Night

It's also important to make sure your baby is not too hot. While you obviously want your baby to stay warm and cozy, protecting them from overheating is also important.

Here are the typical signs of a baby that is too hot:

• their neck is warm and sticky
• their hair is wet from sweating
• their skin is damp
• their skin looks reddened or flushed

If you notice these signs, take off a layer of their clothing.

Related Article: Why Is My Baby Waking At 5 AM In The Morning?

4. The Ideal Room Temperature

Keeping the right room temperature for your baby is not only important for their sleep quality but also for their health and safety.

In 2001, a group of scientists conducted a study on the impact of room temperature on children's arousal rates. The results revealed that babies who slept in warmer room temperatures had a harder time waking up in response to auditory signals.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) occurs when a baby is unable to wake up when there is a physiological issue. This study indicated that higher room temperatures impact the baby's ability to be easily awakened, thereby increasing the risk of the baby not waking up if something is amiss.

So it is important to maintain a rather lower room temperature to ensure that the baby's ability to wake up and cry is not hindered in the event of any disturbances during sleep.

The same study found that babies who slept in room temperatures below 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 Celsius) did not experience heightened difficulty in waking up.

So the best room temperature for your baby to sleep in is between 68°F and 72°F (20°C and 22.2°C). This is the ideal temperature to create a comfortable and safe sleep environment for your little one.

To determine the room temperature, you can use a thermometer next to your baby's bed.

Also, make sure that your baby's crib is not placed near a drafty window or door. Drafts can make the temperature in the room drop and make your baby cold. But also avoid placing the crib close to sources of heat.

Placing the crib in the right place will create a consistent room temperature throughout their sleeping space.

In my Baby Sleep Guide, you will learn in more detail what your baby should wear at any temperature. You will also get a complete overview of how to set up your baby's sleep space to help them get the best sleep possible.

Related Article: 10 Amazing Tricks to Calm a Crying Baby

5. What Baby Should Wear

Dress Them in Layers

Dressing your baby in layers is a great way to keep them warm without overheating them. When they are too hot or too cold, you can simply remove one layer of clothing.

Use a Sleep Sack

Sleep sacks and swaddles can help keep your baby warm and snug. They provide an extra layer of warmth and prevent your baby from kicking off their blankets during the night. Make sure that the sleep sack or swaddle fits your baby properly and is not too tight.

Sleep sacks come with a TOG rating. The TOG rating measures the warmth of the sleeping bag. The higher the TOG rating, the warmer the sleeping bag.

The general rule of thumb is that babies should wear one layer more than you are.

6. Babies & Kids Don't Feel as Cold as We Do

There is actually an anatomic reason why babies and kids don't feel as cold as we do. While you are shivering outside, your little one might just be ready to wear their shorts.

For once, children are very active and have a fast metabolic rate which keeps them warm. But additionally, children have more of what is called "brown fat". Brown fat is a special fat whose primary role is to generate heat. This fat is concentrated in the neck area and generates heat for their body.

As we get older, the amount of brown fat decreases. Instead, that great white fat increases, which only makes our jeans not fit anymore. Well, thanks a lot...

And that is the simple reason why you and I are cold all the time.

7. Conclusion

I guess it is just in our parental blood that we need to make sure our children aren't cold for one single minute.

I mean, I've been a mom for several years now, and still, whenever a little breeze of wind comes out, I grab the jackets and try to convince my children to put them on (which they basically reject 99% of the time).

And while keeping your baby warm at night is obviously essential for their comfort and safety, chances are you don't need to worry as much as I used to. Your baby will give you clear signs when they are too cold to sleep well.

8. FAQs

1. How often should I check on my baby during the night?

While it's a good idea to check on your baby at night, you don't need to get up every hour to see if they are cold. You might not only disturb their sleep, but you will get less sleep than you are probably getting now. When you arouse, you can just shortly check their neck and if it is not cold then they are good!

2. Can I use a blanket for my baby?

Loose blankets are not recommended. They are not only a choking hazard for your baby, but they are also not very effective in keeping your baby warm. If you are a parent, you know that that blanket is anywhere else but on them.

3. Can my baby wear a hat?

It's not necessary for your baby to wear a hat. It can actually be dangerous and lead to overheating. Babies regulate their body temperature through their heads, so putting on a hat increases the risk of overheating (and suffocating if the hat comes off).

4. Should I use mittens or gloves for cold hands?

As mentioned before, cold hands are not an indicator that your baby is actually cold. And cold hands are not something bad. So, in general, your baby does not need to wear gloves or mittens. If you want to use mittens because you are worried that your baby will scratch themselves, make sure they don't pose any risk or choking hazard.

The dream feed is very popular in the baby sleep community. But what if it just won't work? There is a fair share of parents that struggle with the dream feed. Let's see why the dream feed doesn't always work and what you can try to get that extra couple of hours of sleep.

Offering a feed before you go to bed and then sleeping for a couple of hours just sounds so….dreamy, right? A real dream for parents.

I mean, the theory sounds great.

But what if it doesn't work? What if you have tried the dream feed in so many different ways, and it still doesn't get your baby to sleep longer?

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Well, the truth is that the dream feed does not always work for everyone. But you don't have to necessarily give up right away. There are still a few things you can try.

In this article, we will talk about the most common reasons why the dream feed doesn't work, some extra tips to try, and when to just call it a night.

1. What Is The Dream Feed?

Before we dive into the reasons why the dream feed technique may not be working for your baby, let's take a moment to understand what it is.

The dream feed is a technique where you feed your baby while they are still sleeping, usually between 10 PM and midnight. The idea is to fill their belly with enough milk so they can sleep through the night without waking up hungry.

By not waking them, you are also kind of programming their inner body clock to sleep during these hours.

I wrote a recent article about how to implement the dream feed and the pros and cons of dream feeding.

Related Article: Dream Feed Pros And Cons: When To Do It, When To Leave It

2. Reasons Why The Dream Feed Doesn't Work

There are a couple of reasons why the dream feed sometimes doesn't work:

• baby is too sleepy to take a feed
• baby is too wide awake
• baby is not hungry enough
• tummy troubles and reflux
• disrupting the sleep pattern
• the timing is not right
• baby's age

Baby Is Too Sleepy To Take A Feed

Depending on when you catch your baby while sleeping, it is possible that they are in deep sleep and simply too sleepy to take in a full feed. They don't latch properly or don't take the bottle.

Baby Is Too Wide Awake

There are a lot of opinions on how to do the dream feed "right". Some suggest arousing baby slightly from their sleep. Others say that baby should be totally asleep.

It's difficult to say which one is 100% right. But it's possible that if you wake your baby from their sleep cycle, they will have a more difficult time transitioning back into deep sleep. This can actually keep them restless during the rest of the night and lead to fragmented sleep. And then you're actually ending up with more night wakings.

Baby Is Not Hungry Enough

If your baby had a full feed before going to bed, and then you have the dream feed 2-3 hours later, it is possible that your little one is not hungry enough for another full feed.

Tummy Troubles & Reflux

Some digestive issues, such as reflux or gas, can make dream feeding difficult. The feed can make them feel uncomfortable or leave them with air in their tummy.

Disrupting Baby's Sleep Pattern

Waking a sleeping baby every night to feed you might disrupt their natural sleep pattern. This can also reset your baby's inner body clock to wake. In this case, the dream feed has a reverse effect.

You are now heading towards a habitual wake and reprogramming your baby to wake every night at the exact same time.

The Timing Is Not Right

The right timing also plays an important part in the process. If you have your dream feed too late, your baby might wake on their own. If you are having the dream feed too early, they might not be hungry, or you're catching them in deep sleep.

Age

The age of your little one can also play a role. For newborn babies, the dream feed will not work because they still have day-night confusion. The dream feed may also not work very well for an older baby. Their tummy is not only growing in size, but the risk of developing a habitual wake is bigger with growing age.

Related Article: Baby Has Days And Nights Mixed Up? 10 Steps To Fix Your Baby's Day Night Confusion

3. What To Try If Dream Feeding Doesn't Work

Slighty Arouse Baby From Sleep

If your baby is too sleepy for a night feed, then you can either unswaddle your baby, take off their socks or change their diaper. Whatever you do, do it before the feed.

Once you're half way through the feed, swaddle your baby again and continue feeding. This way, they can fall back to sleep during the feed.

Tweak The Timing

If your baby is too wide awake during the feed or has trouble settling back to feed, then you can try adjusting the time. Try having the feed 10 minutes earlier before they enter the lightest stage of sleep.

In general, when you pick a time, you should always consider the last meal and when they went to bed. The dream feed should ideally be after 2.5-3.5 hours after the last meal or 2-3 hours after they went to bed.

Related Article: Early Sleep Cues - 8 Early Tired Signs You Cannot Miss

Holding Your Baby The Right Way

If your baby suffers from reflux or gas, hold your baby at a slight incline while feeding so that their head is higher than their stomach. You can also hold them in your arms for another 10-15 minutes before laying them flat on the mattress.

If your baby is struggling with gas, make sure to use the right bottles that will prevent your baby from taking in too much air. If you have a breastfed baby, you can wait until your milk flow slows down, so your baby doesn't take in too much air while feeding.

Decrease The Amount Of The Last Feed

If your baby doesn't seem hungry enough during the dream, feed you can either have the last meal before bedtime earlier or you can decrease the amount of the milk feed.

Age

The dream feed works best for younger babies between 2 and 5 months. They have most likely developed their circadian rhythm but are not old enough to develop any sleep association.

Related Article: Why Is My Baby Waking At 5 AM In The Morning?

4. When To Stop The Dream Feed

As a sleep-deprived parent, you would probably try everything in your power to get just a couple of extra hours to sleep.

I truly, utterly, and full-heartedly understand why you want to make it work so desperately.

But the harsh truth is that for at least 50%, if not even more, the dream feed will simply never work, no matter how hard you try.

The dream feed mostly works for babies that are already good sleepers and easy-going babies. And both are less common than you might think.

The norm is really that you have a young baby that wakes every 2-3 hours. So if you have tried for more than two weeks to make this work, I think it's time to wave the white flag and make peace with it.

By the way, there are also a ton of sleep consultants that do not recommend the dream feed anymore. Instead, they are aiming for healthy sleep habits and a healthy sleep hygiene.

Related Article: Ultimate Newborn Sleep Tips That Are Super Easy To Implement

5. Conclusion

The dream feed is a nice concept that can work for some babies. But as always, when it comes to babies and sleep, there are no two babies alike. And sometimes, our expectations of baby sleep simply exceed the reality.

I heard one sleep training expert say that after a dream feed, you should be able to get 5-6 hours of uninterrupted sleep. Like, that's sleeping through the night! At 3 months?! Sounds a little bit too dreamy to me.

So always keep your expectations right. And if you ask me, I would encourage you to read about experiences from real-life parents on forums rather than what a sleep expert says you should expect. Just saying…

But if you want to go ahead and try the dream feed, that's totally legit! Just keep in mind that the dream feed does not have to work the very first day, but it can take a couple of days until it hits off. So remember that it can take some time until you see results.

And if it doesn't work?

Well, the dream feed is only ONE method that could get you more sleep. There are also other strategies and ways to get extra sleep. So don't get too hung up on it!

6. FAQ

1. What Is The Best Age To Stop The Dream Feed

It would be best to stop the dream feed at around 5-6 months if you have to wake your baby to have the feed. If your baby always sleeps through the feed, then you can continue feeding until 7-8 months.

2. How Many Hours Can I Expect My Baby To Sleep After The Dream Feed?

That really depends on the baby and their age. But if you can score 3-4 hours of uninterrupted sleep, then I would already call it a win!

3. Will My Baby Still Wake At Night After The Dream Feed?

The chances are yes! Your baby is still very young, and they need frequent feeds, even if they have a dream feed. The goal of the dream feed is not to completely eliminate all night wakings, as your baby is too young for that. It's about getting one longer stretch of sleep with an extra feed at the right time.

4. What If My Baby Doesn't Resettle After The Dream Feed?

If this is a one-time thing, then you don't need to worry about it. However, if your baby always has trouble falling back to sleep after the dream feed or they need excessive help, for example, by rocking them back to sleep, they are waking up too much. Then you either need to keep your baby somehow completely asleep, or you have to stop dream feeding.

Rise and shine, my dear parent! Who needs an alarm clock if you got an early-rising toddler on your hands? If you are struggling with a toddler that wakes way too early in the morning, then this article is for you! Let's find out why early rises are still common in toddlers and what you can do to get your little one to sleep longer in the morning.

Come on, let's be honest. You thought it would be all over by now, and you would finally get some decent sleep.

And yet, here you are at 5 AM, trying to figure out why your toddler woke up so early. And next to you is that so-called toddler acting as if nothing happened.

LEARN MORE >>

Early wakings can still be a real thing in toddlers. In fact, it can easily develop into a habitual waking at this age.

But don't despair. Not all hope is lost.

We've got you covered with some effective methods and toddler-tailored strategies that will help your early riser sleep longer in the morning. So go grab your 5th coffee of the day and start reading.

1. What Is an Actual Early Morning Wake?

Before I had kids, I considered waking up by myself before 9 AM on weekends early.

Boy, did I learn fast that this is not the case with little children.

Babies' and toddlers' natural waking hours are 6-8 AM, with the majority of children waking between 6-7 AM.

This is simply how their natural circadian rhythm functions. They are made to go to bed early and wake early.

So everything before 6 AM is considered an early wake. But if you have a toddler that is 2 years or older, you should also be able to shift those wakings to 7 AM.

Related Article: Why Is My Baby Waking At 5 AM In The Morning?

2. How Much Sleep Does My Toddler Need?

Before we dive into the reasons why your toddler might be waking up too early, let's first take a look at the typical sleep needs of toddlers.

Toddlers generally need between 11-14 hours of sleep per day, including naps. But it really depends on your child. A low sleep-needs baby might be at the lower end, while a high sleep-needs baby might be at the higher end of the spectrum.

By the age of two, most toddlers will only have one day per day. After the age of two, some toddlers will also start to fight the last nap of the day.

Related Article: Low Sleep Needs Babies & Toddlers - How Much Sleep Your Child Really Needs

3. Common Causes of Early Waking in Toddlers

Here are the most common causes your toddler wakes up too early:

• Too Early Bedtime
• Too Much Daytime Sleep
• Habitual Waking
• Environmental Factors
• Too Little Sensory Play
• Too Much Screen Time
• Developmental Milestones
• Separation Anxiety

Too Early Bedtime

With babies, we always worry about overtiredness. We try so hard not to get that baby too tired.

But once your baby gets older, things will start to change. Your little one does not need as much daytime sleep anymore.

And while it is still possible for your toddler to get overtired, undertiredness plays a bigger role in toddlers.

When you put your toddler down for the night too early, they might also wake up early if they got enough sleep.

Related Article: A Toddler Bedtime Routine That Will Make Your Toddler Stop Fighting Sleep

Too Much Daytime Sleep

When your toddler is only on one daytime nap, there will come a time when you will need to cap the nap if you want them to sleep at night.

The more your toddler sleeps during the day, the less they will sleep at night.

So you will either have a later bedtime or an early morning wake.

Related Article: The Undertired Baby Is Real - 5 Signs Your Baby Is Undertired

Habitual Waking

We talk about habitual waking when your toddler starts to wake early in the morning and compensates for lost nighttime sleep with daytime naps.

What happens is that your toddler's circadian rhythm has shifted and is now adjusted to waking early in the morning because they did this for a longer period of time (2 weeks or more).

Environmental Factors

There are also environmental factors that can impact your toddler's sleep.

Toddlers spend more time in light sleep as the morning approaches. They can arouse easily by disruptions such as noise, light, and temperature.

Too Little Sensory Play

Sensory play and physical activities are important for toddlers. They need to fill their sensory cup in order to to get a good night's rest.

If your little one spends a lot of time indoors or doesn't find opportunities to release a good amount of energy (and we know toddlers have endless energy), then it will reflect on their sleeping behavior.

Too Much Screen Time

Research shows that too much screen time, especially before bedtime, will negatively affect your child's sleep.

The blue light of screens suppresses the melatonin production and decreases sleep pressure.

So if your child is exposed to too much blue light, they will take a longer time to fall asleep, and they will experience more night wakings or early morning wakes.

Developmental Milestones

Toddlers are constantly growing and developing, and this can impact their sleep patterns.

At this age, they are especially experiencing a lot of cognitive development. Communication milestones like talking or cognitive milestones like problem-solving and thinking are huge steps for your little one.

Related Article: How To Survive The 4 Month Sleep Regression With An Actual SMILE

Separation Anxiety

During toddlerhood, you might experience the most challenging phase of separation anxiety.

A typical time for the last phase of separation anxiety occurs between 17-18 months. With growing independence, toddlers also become more aware of separation from their caregivers.

If you notice that your child demands a lot of your attention or seems more clingy than usual, they might go through this phase.

4. How To Stop Early Toddler Wakings

There are several things you can do to help your toddler sleep longer in the morning. But keep in mind that sometimes it can take some time to solve early wakings if it has already grown into a habitual wake.

Check The Amount Of Daytime Sleep

Too much daytime sleep is the number one cause of early morning wakes.

I know it seems so tempting to let your toddler nap during the day, but you need to remember that when they sleep too much during the day, they will sleep less at night.

If your toddler is older than 18 months, they should not sleep for longer than 1.5 hours during the day. As they grow, you should cap the nap even more.

If your little one is two years and older 20-45 minutes may already be enough. A short nap that will get them through the day is really what you want to aim for.

To determine how much sleep your child needs, observe them closely for tired signs.

Expose Them to a Lot of Outside Play

If it is not raining and ice-cold outside, the best thing you can do is to get your child out of the house as much as possible.

Getting your child outside leads to an increase in endorphins which again promotes better sleep.

Treat Early Morning Wakes Like Night Wakings

If your toddler is waking early, keep it as lowkey as possible. The worst thing you want to do is get them up and put them in front of the TV because you're so dead tired.

Instead, try and soothe them back to sleep. If your child doesn't get upset or is crying, you can try to leave them in the crib.

You want to delay the start of the day as much as possible.

Related Article: Why Is My Baby Waking At 5 AM In The Morning?

Create a Calming Bedtime Routine

A soothing bedtime routine can help your toddler wind down and prepare for sleep. Toddlers will need a longer bedtime routine, so make sure to start at the right time and not to rush anything.

Consider incorporating activities like a bath, reading a book, or listening to calming music.

Address Environmental Factors

As mentioned earlier, environmental factors such as noise and light can impact your toddler's sleep.

Consider using blackout curtains, a white noise machine, or a fan to create a more conducive sleep environment.

If you are room-sharing and one of you is a loud sleeper, you can think about switching up your sleeping arrangement and maybe move your little one into their own room.

Fill Their Emotional Cup

Children thrive on attention and closeness to their caregivers.

Make sure to fill up your child's emotional cup before they go to sleep. If your toddler is at daycare during the day, make sure to get in as many cuddles as possible before they go down for the night.

You can also consider introducing a lovely or new favorite toy for your child. It will not only work as a new passive sleep association but can also help them transition to sleep.

Limit Screen Time

Screen time can interfere with your child's sleep, so it's essential to set limits.

Avoid letting your toddler watch TV or use electronic devices two hours before bedtime, as this can make it harder for them to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Be Patient

Finally, it's important to be patient and consistent when trying to improve your toddler's sleep. It may take some time to see results, but with patience and persistence, you can help your child develop a healthy sleep hygiene.

5. Conclusion

Early wakings with toddlers can be as frustrating as with babies, if not even more so.

But they are also easier to solve than with little babies. So do not get discouraged, and give your little one some time to adjust to a new waking hour at which you can both enjoy your first beverage of the day.

6. FAQ

1. Is it normal for toddlers to wake up early?

Yes, early morning wakes are a common sleep problem in toddlers. With babies, early wakings are more 'natural' as they have not yet fully developed their circadian rhythm. However, at this age, they are mostly related to too much daytime sleep.

2. How can I tell if my child is getting enough sleep?

If your child is happy and content during the day, then they are getting enough sleep. You should always consider how much sleep your child is getting in a 24-hour period and not only at night.

If your child seems very irritated and constantly shows tired signs during the day, they might be missing some sleep.

3. Should I wake my toddler in the morning if they're still sleeping?

There is really no need to wake up your toddler. Babies can sleep very well when they are on a more regulated sleep schedule to help develop a certain sleep pattern. However, with toddlers, this is usually not necessary anymore, and you can let your toddler wake up naturally.

4. Can I give my toddler melatonin to help them sleep better?

It's not recommended to give melatonin to toddlers without consulting with a pediatrician first.

Toddlers and babies don't need any 'sleep medicine'. Just put in the time and effort to figure out what is causing their poor sleep.

5. How long does it take to see the first results?

It can take up to two weeks to have a normal sleeping toddler again. Their inner body clock needs to get used to a new waking hour, and this just requires some time.

This is probably the most common questions parents have: Can I sleep train my baby without using a cry-it-out method? But the truth is that there are ways to improve your baby's sleep without the need to let them cry. Let's explore all the alternatives to classic sleep training and discover if they really work!

Hearing a baby cry is just such a trigger.

Not only because our generation of parents are probably sensitive to crying since we were all taught that  crying is bad and we should “just stop crying” as little children.

No, also because baby's cries actually activates certain regions in our brain that are responsible for nothing other than pure anxiety. Cool, huh?

LEARN MORE >>

It's a great thing that we parents have such an urge to respond to baby's cries because crying is for a long time the only way of communication for those little beings.

And then there comes baby sleep training.

Many sleep training methods include crying. So now you are at kind of a dilemma. On the one hand you fear you need to teach your baby how to sleep. On the other hand every inch of your body wrenches when you hear those little sirens go off.

So what are you going to do?

Well, I for myself am not a big believer in any cry-it-out methods whether they are controlled crying or hardcore FERBER. It just never felt right for me and I couldn't let my babies cry. Yet I was able to improve their sleep with gentle techniques that I want to show you.

In this article, we will find out if sleep training without crying it out can work and explore the alternative baby sleep methods that will help your baby sleep better.

1. What Is Sleep Training?

There is no official definition of sleep training. It means a lot of different things for a lot of different people. Some people consider sleep training any attempt to influence baby's sleep. For others sleep training only comprises methods that involve letting your baby cry it out.

In general, sleep training is a term used to describe a set of methods and techniques used to help infants and young children learn to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night.

For me personally, sleep training is everything that includes all the methods that tell you not to respond to your baby. And CIO counts as that.

I have written another article about what will happen when you don't sleep train. Doomsday of course..no just kidding. But check out the article if you want to find it out!

Related Article: What Happens If You Don't Sleep Train? Here Is The Truth

2. Do I Need To Sleep Train?

No, you don't need to sleep train. Sleep is not a skill that you have to teach. Babies know very well how to sleep. Your child will sleep eventually even if you don't move a single finger.

And self-soothing is a skill that you develop over time. Not at 6 months and not at 24 months (go ahead and ask my toddler). It's a skill that you develop through many years of childhood by having your needs met. And not by leaving you to cry alone in the dark.

Though love doesn't work with little people.

The reason why so many parents think they might need to sleep train is because it's advertised to them by sleep consultants. Combine this with short parental leave, postpartum, no family to help you out and total sleep deprivation, then you got the perfect anxious parent thinking their baby will never sleep unless they leave them to cry.

Please don't get me wrong. Sleep deprivation is tough. Lack of sleep will do all kinds of things to you starting from mood swings to anxiety. I just want you to know that there are very well other gentle ways to improve your baby's sleep and that you do not need to let your little one cry.

Related Article: Baby Sleep - What To REALLY Expect 0-12 Months

3. Taking A Holistic View At Baby's Environment

To improve your baby's sleep you first have to take a look at the complete family picture and understand how baby sleep actually works. There are many factors that can influence your baby's way of sleep. If you tweak some things here and there you might be able to improve your baby's sleep already.

Before we dive into more specific methods, let's take a closer look at all the different factors that may have an effect on your baby's sleep:

Sleeping Arrangement

The sleeping arrangement is a very personal family matter. But sometimes we are afraid to try out something new.

The truth is that some babies sleep better in a crib, others when they co-sleep with their parents. A separate room might be a good solution for noisy sleepers (parents or baby). Co-sleeping might be the right choice for breastfed babies or sensitive babies.

We sometimes think there is only one right way to sleep for a baby, but there are many safe ways for a baby to sleep. Floor beds, co-sleeping, matress next to the crib. There are a lot of different options

If you think your current situation might contribute to sleepless nights then try something different. Just make sure to follow all safe sleep guidelines.

Related Article: Transitioning Baby From Bassinet To Crib - How To Do It In 7 Easy Steps

Cortisol

Its also important to understand the influence of cortisol on a baby's sleep. Whenever your baby is awake their cortisol levels slowly rise. When cortisol levels get high babies need to nap in order to lower those cortisol levels again.

If your baby stays awake for longer than their body can handle then their cortisol levels will peak. In other words, your baby is now overtired. They will now have trouble falling and staying asleep because of those high cortisol levels.

That is why it's important to learn about early tired signs. They are a big step towards better baby sleep and will help you put down your baby to bed at the right time.

Related Article: Early Sleep Cues - 8 Early Tired Signs You Should Not Miss

Sleep Environment

Not only the sleeping arrangement is important but the whole sleep environment can influence your baby's sleep.

You need to create a sleep-inducing environment so your baby has an easier time falling and staying asleep. White noise, black-out curtains and a sleep sack are core elements to create the best sleep environment for your baby.

Related Article: 9 Secret Tips to Help Your Baby Fall And Stay Asleep

Your Behavior When It Comes to Sleep

I know how triggering the whole subject of baby sleep can be. Sometimes it is all you can think about and focus on.

But it is important to remind yourself that your baby is more than that and your parenting is not reflected in your baby's sleeping behavior.

However, sometimes we are already stressed when we know bedtime is approaching. The drawback is that babies are extremely sensitive to stress and pick up on their parents' stress immediately. Your baby will be stressed when you are stressed.

That is why it's important to try to take your mind of the whole sleep thing. Don't start your bedtime already thinking about how many times your baby will wake up this time.

Try to control your thoughts and hold those negative ones in check. Use affirmations and mantras to get your though those tough times.

Related Article: Things To Remind Yourself When Your Baby Is Not Sleeping

Baby's Temperament

I truly don't know why this still gets overlooked so much. Temperament plays a huge role when it comes to sleep, yet it is often not considered.

My own kids are the best example on how much temperament influences sleep. For example, daughter slept in her own room starting at the age of 15 months. This was something we couldn't even think about with my boy. I knew this would never work so we delayed the whole process of moving him to his own room.

You always need to use methods that fit your baby's temperament and personality. Every baby is unique and only because one thing works for one baby it doesn't mean it will work for another one, even when they are siblings.

Don't try to force methods or sleeping arrangements on your that are not working. Instead work with your baby's personality and find solutions tailored to their individual needs.

Related Article: The Real Reasons (Besides Self-Settling) Why Your Baby Is Waking Up So Often At Night

Understanding Baby Sleep Patterns & Adjusting Your Expectations

It's important to understand that baby sleep patterns differ greatly from us adults. You cannot expect your baby to sleep like you would (if you could). They are not tailored that way.

Baby sleep is designed by nature for specific reasons. Night wakings out of hunger and as a protective measure are only two very good reasons why your baby wakes so frequently at night.

It is important that we adjust our expectations and stop following unrealistic social standard that at some point have been set up randomly. We need to understand that infant sleep is also never linear and that we will have our ups and downs.

Research shows that parents who adjust their expectations towards their baby can cope way better with sleep deprivation and sleep loss. That is why it's important that we do not get sucked into the bubble of wanting a perfectly sleeping baby.

4. Alternative Methods To Improve Baby's Sleep

There are methods you can try to improve your baby's sleep without letting them cry it out alone. But before we get to those methods I want to mention two other things.

The first one is that some sleep experts sell their method as a gentle sleep training method or no cry sleep training but once you start you will notice that they do use controlled crying. Therefore it is always a good idea to first get yourself familiar with their sleep philosphy.

If a sleep consultant tells you to not look into your baby's eyes you better run!

The other thing is that we need to understand that crying per se is not something bad. All babies cry. You and I know better than anyone else. The problem with conventional infant sleep training is that babies are left alone to cry.

So weaning your baby from feeding to sleep and having them protest is not the same as leaving them in the dark room alone.

Wake-To-Sleep

The Wake-to-sleep method is a very effective method to help your baby connect sleep cycles. It's perfect for lengthening your baby's short naps.

You can find out how this method works and how it is implemented in my article below:

Related Article: The Wake To Sleep Method Explained - A Step-By-Step Guide

The Pick-Up, Put-Down Method

The pick-up, put-down method is also a wildely known method to get your baby used to falling asleep in the crib. You basically put your baby down into the crib and when they start crying you pick them up again. Once they are calm you try placing them back in the crib.

You are supposed to repeat this method until your baby gets used to falling asleep in the crib at the beginning of nap and bedtime.

With this method I always advice parents not to try longer than for 20-30 minutes because then the stress really gets to you.  It can be more time consuming and requires a lot of patience from the parent. But if you practise this you baby will get used to falling asleep in the crib more and more.

Drowsy But Awake

This is not the usual drowsy but awake method that we know from many sleep consultants. This techniques is rather used for crib transfers if you have a baby that will only sleep in your arms.

For this method, you will help your baby fall asleep as usual but once you notice that they are really drowsy, even almost asleep you will place them into the crib and continue to settle there.

This method takes time and practise but your baby will also get used to falling asleep in the crib.

Practice Crib Naps

By practising crib naps your baby will also get used to sleeping in the crib. I always suggest to start with the morning nap as sleep pressure is still high and your baby will fall asleep more easily in the morning.

In order to get used to sleeping in the crib, your baby doesn't have to nap there all the time. One nap a day will already have a great effect.

Replacing Active Sleep Associations With Passive Sleep Associations

Active sleep associations are those that include a parent while passive sleep associations are for example a dark room or white noise.

In order to slowly transition to independent sleep, you can remove those active sleep associations with passive sleep sleep associations.

For example you can go from feeding to sleep to rocking to sleep to patting to sleep to shushing to sleep. As you can see you gradually remove your help but don't make big jumps but rather small steps.

If you are interested in slowly pacing out active sleep associations take a loot at my sleep program where we gently wean babies from feeding and rocking to sleep.

5. Can Sleep Training Without A Cry It Out Method Really Work?

It's important to remember that conventional sleep training also doesn't work with all babies. For example for highly sensitive babies CIO methods will probably never work. The same goes for gentle techniques. So it really depends on your baby.

Sometimes it will take longer to see results but with every day you are making progress. So in the long run gentle methods are just as effective as CIO methods.

It all comes down to a healthy sleep hygiene that in all honesty even we as adults should practise (but most of us don't (scrolling your phone before to sleep?).

6. FAQ

1. How long does it typically take to see results with alternative sleep training methods?

Results can vary depending on the baby and the sleep training method being used. Some babies may show improvement within a few days, while others may take several weeks or even months to fully adjust to a new sleep routine.

2. Can these gentle methods be used for toddlers as well?

Yes, all these methods can be used for babies and toddlers. Since toddlers can communicate more and are more easily distracted it can be easier to guide them to independent sleep (even if they have a louder voice). They understand more of what is happening and what you are saying. I would say that toddlers adjust even better than young babies.

3. Are there any risks to not sleep training your baby?

There are no risks to not sleep training your baby. Your child will eventually sleep on their own at some point. The only thing you want to establish healthy sleep habits which include winding down, no screen time, reading a book, etc.

Dressing baby for sleep can be a real challenge. Are they too warm? Are they too cold? Are they both? Who says it's not possible?! Determining just the right amount of clothing for your baby is not only essential for a good night's rest, but it's also crucial to guarantee safe sleep. Therefore, let's take out the guesswork once and for all and learn what baby should wear at night.

As a first-time mom, I always used to worry about my baby getting too cold or too warm at night. I would constantly check her neck, check our thermometer and adjust the room temperature.

So not only did her night feedings keep me awake, but obviously also my anxiety about over- or underdressing my baby at night (well, besides 100 other fears, but this shall not be part of this article).

And, of course, if the baby didn't sleep well, she either must have been too cold or too warm. At least, according to my husband.

LEARN MORE >>

But here is the thing. Figuring out what your baby should wear is not as much of a science as it turns out. And if you use one little helper, everything gets automatically easier.

And that is a sleep sack.

A sleep sack or baby sleeping bag is such a handy tool to keep your baby warm and safe without the risks of a loose blanket. In this article, we will give you an ultimate sleep sack temperature guide, helping you determine what your baby should wear for sleep.

1. Understanding Safe Sleep

Before we get into the details of sleep sacks and what to wear, it's important to understand the principles of safe sleep. Safe sleep guidelines help reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related deaths.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep on their backs on a firm and flat surface. Their sleep space should be free from loose bedding like blankets and pillows, and there shouldn't be any objects like stuffed animals or toys.

It is also better to wait with letting your baby sleep with a lovey or stuffed animal in the first year.

Related Article: Ultimate Newborn Sleep Tips That Are Super Easy To Implement

2. Why Temperature Matters So Much

The right temperature is essential for a good night's sleep for both adults and babies. A 2012 study found that the room temperature is one of the most important factors for achieving quality sleep.

But temperature matters even more for babies, not only for better quality sleep but also for safe sleep. While adults are able to regulate their inner body temperature, infants and young babies cannot regulate their body temperature until they are about 1.5-2 years old.

Therefore, overdressing your baby can lead to overheating, which increases the risk of SIDS.

3. Introducing Sleep Sacks And Baby Sleep Bags

A sleep sack or baby sleep bag is the perfect tool to keep your baby warm and safe.

With a sleep sack, not only don't you have to worry about a baby that constantly kicks off their blanket (my 5-year-old still does that, btw), but it is also a much safer alternative to a loose blanket.

Additionally, you can much easier control baby's temperature.

Sleep sacks come in a range of sizes and thicknesses to suit different room temperatures and can be worn over your little one's regular sleepwear.

Related Article: Newborn Sleepy Cues - The Solution To Get Your Baby To Sleep Fast & Easy

4. Choosing the Right Sleep Sack

When choosing a sleep sack, it's important to consider the temperature of your baby's room. According to the room temperature, you will choose a sleep sack with the right thickness. As a general rule, the ideal temperature for your baby's room is 68-72°F (20-22.2°C).

The thickness of a sleep sack is measured in tog ratings. A higher tog indicates a warmer sack. You will probably not use the same sleep sack for the whole year. Therefore it can be helpful to have at least two sleep sacks with different tog levels (one for the summer and one for the winter).

Here is a sleep sack temperature guide for different room temperatures:

• Room temperature of 75°F (24°C) or higher: 0.5 tog sleep sack
• Room temperature of 69-74°F (21-23°C): 1.0 tog sleep sack
• Room temperature of 54-68°F (12-20°C): 2.5 tog sleep sack

5. Dressing Your Baby for Sleep

Once you have chosen the appropriate sleep sack, you can dress your baby accordingly. In general, a onesie or a body is all that is needed underneath the sleep sack.

Here are some additional tips for dressing your baby for sleep:

• Avoid dressing your baby in too many layers, which can cause overheating.
• Make sure your baby's head and neck are uncovered.
• Check your baby's temperature by feeling their neck, not their hands or feet.
• If your baby is sweating or their skin feels hot to the touch, they may be too warm.
• If you are bed-sharing, it is not recommended to use a sleep sack.

Related Article: My Newborn Hates The Swaddle! Pro Tips When Your Baby And The Swaddle Are No Buddies

6. What to Do in Warmer Temperatures

During hot summer nights, it can be challenging to keep your baby comfortable, especially if you don't have air conditioning available. Here are some tips for dressing your baby in warmer temperatures:

• Choose a lightweight sleep sack with a low tog rating, such as 0.5 tog.
• Dress your baby in a short-sleeved onesie or a sleeveless sleep suit.
• Keep the room cool by using a fan or air conditioning (but keep baby away from direct blast of cold air).

7. What to Do in a Colder Temperatures

When the temperature drops, it's important to keep your baby warm and cozy. Here are some tips for dressing your baby in colder temperatures:

• Choose a sleep sack with a higher tog rating, such as 2.5 tog.
• Dress your baby in a long-sleeved onesie or sleep suit.
• Consider layering with a onesie and pajamas for extra warmth.

Related Article: Can Babies Have Bad Dreams? Everything About Babies & Nightmares

8. How To Check Your Baby's Temperature

If you're like me, you will probably check your baby's temperature a couple of times at night. Yay!

Here are some tips on how to check your baby's temperature:

• Feel your baby's neck to check for their temperature. Their neck should be warm but not sticky.
• Use a room thermometer to monitor the temperature of the room.
• Check your baby's temperature if they are unwell or seem uncomfortable.
• A general rule of thumb is that a newborn should wear one more layer of clothing than you.

9. Other Considerations

When dressing your baby for sleep, there are some other considerations to keep in mind. Here are a few additional tips:

• Consider the fabric of your baby's sleepwear. Natural fibers like cotton and bamboo are breathable and comfortable.
• Make sure the sleep sack fits well and is not too loose as it can cover their face.
• Avoid using blankets or other loose bedding in your baby's sleep environment.

Related Article: Transitioning Baby From Bassinet To Crib - How To Do It In 7 Easy Steps

10. FAQ

What is a sleep sack?

A sleep sack is a wearable blanket designed to keep your baby warm without the need for loose blankets.

How do I choose the right sleep sack for my baby?

Choose a sleep sack with a tog rating appropriate for the temperature of your baby's room. Refer to the guide in this article for more information.

What should my baby wear under a sleep sack?

In general, a onesie or sleepwear is all that is needed underneath a sleep sack. Refer to the tips in this article for more detailed information.

Can my baby overheat in a sleep sack?

Yes, it's important not to overdress your baby. Refer to the tips in this article for more information on monitoring your baby's temperature.

Is it safe to use a sleep sack?

Yes, sleep sacks are a safe alternative to loose blankets, which can increase the risk of SIDS if they become loose and cover the baby's face.

How long can my baby or toddler wear a sleep sack?

There is really no age limit. Many toddlers and even preschoolers still kick off their blankets. When using a sleep sack for an older child, you should only make sure that it's long enough. You can also look for sleep sacks with separate legs or footed pajamas.

Have you heard about the magical method that supposedly makes your baby sleep until the early morning? Of course, we are talking about the dream feed. But does it really work? And how do you implement it the right way? Find all the answers about the dreamy dream feed and the truth that some sleep trainers are hiding.

Your brain is pretty clouded from all the sleepless nights with your baby. Yet, you still manage to crawl through the darkest corners of the internet, hoping to find a solution to your baby's sleep.

And then you read about it: the dream feed.

You read about articles where your baby will apparently sleep until the morning. You read success stories. It all sounds so wonderful.

LEARN MORE >>

Just imagine having your little baby sleep until the morning without waking up. 6 hours of sleep. How wonderful and dreamy would that be? It almost sounds like a dream, doesn't it?

The truth is there is much more behind the dream feed than just feeding your baby at 11 PM. Let's find out what the dream feed is, how it works, and if it really keeps what it promises, including all the dream feed pros and cons.

1. What Is A Dream Feed?

The dream feed is a popular technique that is used to help babies sleep longer at night. Thereby, you give your baby an additional night feeding while they are sleeping, usually before you would go to bed yourself.

The idea behind it is to help your baby get the longest stretch of sleep after the dream feed at the same time when you are sleeping too. So you are basically syncing your and your baby's sleep, so both of you hopefully get a couple of hours of uninterrupted sleep.

The dream feed can work for a breastfed baby and a bottle-fed baby.

Related Article: Baby Has Days And Nights Mixed Up? 10 Steps To Fix Your Baby's Day Night Confusion

2. How The Dream Feed Is Implemented

The first step of the dream feed would be to determine the right time for the feed.

Usually, the time of the dream feed is between 10-12 PM, but it mostly depends on your baby's bedtime. It is approx. 3-3.5 hours after the last meal or 2-3 hours after they have fallen asleep.

Many babies develop regular sleep patterns after the first couple of weeks. So observe your baby for a couple of days to determine when they would wake by themselves. For example, you might notice that your baby either always wakes at the same time or they wake after a certain amount of time after falling asleep.

Once you have a regular waking time, have the dream feed about 10 minutes before.

The ideal method would be to feed your baby while they are fully asleep. If your baby is in active sleep, they should feed quite well. You can slightly touch their upper lip with your nipple or the teat of their bottle. This will stimulate the rooting reflex and encourage them to suck.

However, if they are in deep sleep, it's possible they don't latch or don't feed very well.

In that case, you would have to slightly wake your sleeping baby by either changing the diaper or pulling off their socks.

Your baby should get a good feed so they can sleep for a couple of hours without feeding.

Related Article: 12 Ultimate Tips On How To Survive The Newborn Stage And Thrive As A New Mom

3. The Pros Of Dream Feeds

There are some potential benefits of dream feeding that may make it an attractive option for parents to try it out.

Here are the pros of dream feeding:

• Can Help Baby Sleep Longer: One obvious benefit is that the additional nighttime feeding can help your baby sleep for a longer stretch at night.
• Setting Baby's Sleep Pattern: If you manage to feed your baby without waking them, their internal body clock gets used to sleeping for a longer stretch naturally. You are basically reprogramming their sleep pattern.
• Baby Swallows Less Air: A relaxed and calm baby will swallow less air during a feed than a fully-wake baby that is starving.
• Predictable Schedule: When you have a baby, it's hard to make plans because everything is unpredictable. With a dream feed, you can somehow predict when your baby needs to feed and how long they might sleep.

Related Article: My Newborn Hates The Swaddle! Pro Tips When Your Baby And The Swaddle Are No Buddies

4. The Cons Of Dream Feeds

While there are some potential benefits to dream feeding, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.

Here are the cons of dream feeding:

• Interrupts The Natural Sleep Cycle: Dream feeding can interrupt your baby's natural sleep cycles, which can disrupt their overall sleep quality. Since they're being woken up to eat, they may not transition back into deep sleep as easily, which can make them more restless during the night.
• May Cause Overfeeding: Dream feeding can also lead to overfeeding, especially if your baby isn't really hungry when you feed them. This can cause discomfort, spitting up, and other digestive issues.
• Changes In Sleep Pattern: Waking your baby every night from sleep can also set your baby's inner body clock to wake. In this case, the dream feed has kind of a reverse effect. You program your baby to wake.
• Stressful For Parents: The dream feed can be stressful for parents when they are trying to implement it, but it doesn't seem to work.

Related Article: False Starts - When Baby Wakes Up 45 Minutes After Bedtime EVERY NIGHT

5. When To Start Dream Feeding

Newborn sleep is still very unpredictable. Newborns usually cannot yet distinguish day and night, and their sleep will be all over the place. They might nap all day and be up for hours at night. Therefore, it doesn't really make sense to try the dream feed with a newborn.

Some babies can start with the dream feed as early as 6 weeks. Ideally, your baby should have developed a somehow regular sleep pattern, and their newborn day-night confusion is resolved.

A good age would be around 2 months. As your baby grows, they also produce more melatonin which will help them sleep for a longer stretch at night.

Related Article: Early Sleep Cues - 8 Early Tired Signs You Cannot Miss

6. When To Stop Dream Feeding

There is conflicting advice on when to stop the dream feed. This mainly lies in the implementation of the dream feed.

If you have to wake your baby even slightly to get them to sleep, it is advised to stop the dream feed at around 4-5 months. Otherwise, you are risking interfering with their natural night sleep pattern, and they might develop a habit of waking.

To try out if your baby has developed a habit of waking, skip the dream feed for 1-2 nights and see if your baby wakes on their own at that dedicated time. If yes, I guess it's time to wave goodbye.

If you're feeding your baby while they are fully asleep, there is nothing wrong with continuing with the dream feed until up to 8-9 months. By this time, your baby might be established on 3 solid meals a day, and they might naturally need less milk at night.

Another thing I like to tell parents is that they should stop if the dream feed stresses them out too much. Sometimes we are so determined to make something work and lose ourselves in it. If you have tried for more than 2 weeks to implement the dream feed, but you weren't successful, it's also time to wave the white flag.

Related Article: Finding Better Sleep With a Sleep Schedule

7. What To Do If The Dream Feed Doesn't Work

Ok, now let's talk business.

All this sounds really nice. But is it actually so easy to implement?

The truth is that the dream feed does not work for a good amount of babies. You can try all you want, but you might still end up with a baby that wakes every 2 hours for a feed, especially when they are very young. It is just their biological nature that they wake up multiple times a night.

I would say that the dream feed is a lucky game and mostly works for easy-going babies and babies that already sleep well (also sometimes called unicorn babies).

For all the other babies that sleep well…like babies, it won't work, or it will not work in the way you have maybe hoped for (in your defense, it was probably advertised to you).

And this leads us to another truth:

You should not expect your baby to sleep until the morning only because they had a feed at 11 PM.

I am really sorry to say it, but that's how it is.

Young babies need regular feeds. For the first year of life, your baby's main nutritional intake comes from milk, nights included.

I am not saying that your baby will not sleep at all after a dream feed, but if you are achieving a 4-hour stretch after the dream feed, then that is a pretty huge accomplishment. Don't aim for something like 8 hours because that is most likely not going to happen.

Related Article: How To Survive The 4 Month Sleep Regression With An Actual SMILE

8. Additional Tips For Dream Feeding

With that being said, there are still some tips and tricks you can try to make the dream feed work. Remember, it doesn't have to work from the very first night on, but it can take a few days until you see actual results.

1. Keep A Dark Environment

Make sure to keep the environment as dark as possible and avoid any disturbances that might wake your little one too much.

2. Use White Noise

Using white noise is a great way to mask outside noises. Some babies are very receptive to noise, for example, when their parent enters the room.

3. Feed During Active Sleep

If you feed your baby during active sleep, they will drink better than when in deep sleep. You will notice that your baby is in active sleep if they move when you pick them up. If your baby's arms and legs seem floppy, then they are in deep sleep.

4. Holding The Baby

Holding your baby the right way can help prevent reflux or spitting up. Hold the baby at a slight incline, with their head higher than their stomach.

Related Article: Ultimate Newborn Sleep Tips That Are Super Easy To Implement

9. FAQs About Dream Feeding

Q: At what age can you start dream feeding?

A: You can start dream feeding once your baby is at least a few weeks old and has developed a regular sleeping pattern.

Q: How do I drop the dream feed?

A: You can drop the dream by just going cold turkey. However, your baby will most likely still wake for another night feed at some point during the night.

Q: Do I have to burp my baby after the dream feed?

A: Burping at night is not necessary for the majority of babies. If, however, you notice that your baby wakes after the feed, smacks their lips, or arches their back, then burping can help them relieve the air in their belly.

Q: I have fast-flowing breast milk, and my baby is having trouble swallowing during the feed. What can I do?

A: If your baby is breastfeeding, then they might swallow more air if their mother has fast-flowing milk. In that case, you can express a little bit of milk with your hands before the dream feed. You will notice how the milk starts to flow and then slows down.

10. Conclusion

While the dream feed really does sound dreamy and offers a good solution for some babies, it is still a game of luck, in my opinion.

It either works for your baby, or it doesn't and never will.

Therefore, I don't recommend getting hung up too much on the dream feed and desperately trying to make it work.

Because the harsh truth is the babies it does work on are probably good sleepers already.

And even if it doesn't work for your baby, there are a bunch of other methods and tips you can try to improve your baby's sleep.

Sleep training is a hot topic among parents, and many wonder if it is really necessary to get their baby to sleep. Some parents believe or are led to believe that their baby will never sleep through the night if they don't intervene with sleep training early enough. In this article, we will discuss what will really happen if you don't sleep train.

Before I became a mom, I had no clue about normal infant sleep or baby sleep training. I was naive enough to think that babies sleep…just like that.

Man, was I wrong.

After the first newborn days wore off, we began to struggle with our first 'sleep problems'. Our little one would wake the minute you put her down, and she would only have short naps.

What was going on?!

So when I began to comb through the internet, I was confronted with sleep training. Everywhere I read that babies needed to learn to self-soothe in order to achieve independent sleep. But the thought of using a sleep training method that included separation or leaving your baby to cry alone just felt wrong in my gut.

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On the other hand, I was afraid my baby would never sleep. And I believe I am not the only parent who anxiously wonders what will happen if you choose not to sleep train at all. For the first couple of months, I really struggled with the question of whether to sleep train or not. I wondered what would happen if I didn't sleep train. Until I found out myself…

So for every parent who is trying to answer this question, let's talk real business. Let's find out what happens when you choose not to sleep train your baby.

1. What Is Sleep Training?

There is no official definition of sleep training. In general, sleep training is a term used to describe a set of methods and techniques used to help infants and young children learn to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. It typically involves teaching the child to self-soothe or self-settle to sleep without any parental help or parental presence.

While it can be difficult to determine what officially counts as sleep training and what doesn't, most sleep training techniques use separation-based methods or methods that instruct you to leave your baby to cry for a certain amount of time. These are the most common ways to teach your baby to sleep on their own. The controlled crying, cry-it-out, or the Ferber method are widely known techniques for sleep training.

Related Article: Ultimate Newborn Sleep Tips That Are Super Easy To Implement

2. Sleep Training vs. Sleep Hygiene

Now, it can be difficult for some parents to really determine what sleep training is and what is not. Some parents feel very strongly about one or another, and sleep training can mean different things to different people.

Is using a schedule sleep training?

Is crying in your arms sleep training?

I can only tell you what sleep training means to me.

For me (and many out there), sleep training is all the methods that tell you not to respond to your baby or to respond differently than you would during the day.

If you leave your crying baby alone for 10 minutes, in my eyes, that's sleep training. If you sit next to your baby's crib and are not allowed to pick them up, touch them or talk to them, it's sleep training.

In my opinion, leaving your baby alone in a room to cry is not the same as weaning them from feeding to sleep, where they also might cry, but you try to soothe them in different ways.

For me, crying is not the problem. If you have a baby (which I assume you do), you know that BABIES CRY A LOT. For me, the difficulty lies in not responding to your baby's cries.

A bedtime routine, sleep schedule, wake windows, and or setting up an ideal sleep environment is not sleep training in my eyes. All these things are often considered healthy sleep habits or sleep hygiene.

Related Article: The Most Common Baby Sleep Challenges: A Quick Troubleshooting Guide

3. How To Know If Sleep Training Is NOT The Right Fit For Me

I just want to quickly point out that I am in no position to judge anyone for their decision to sleep train or not. This is a personal matter, and everyone should do what feels best for them and their family.

That being said, sleep training was never something that felt right for me. I just somehow felt it in my gut that it was not the solution I was looking for. I just couldn't listen to my baby's cries without doing anything.

But that is me.

Judge me all you want, but I was the kind of mom that would stick out her breast whenever her baby was fussing. Yep, that's me.

Since becoming a mom, I have done so much personal soul-searching that I realized that crying is such a trigger for me. If there is something that can spike my cortisol levels, then it's a baby crying. I believe that all mothers have a biological urge to answer to their baby's cries.

But I also feel that, for some reason, I struggled more with baby's cries than maybe someone else.

And if you feel the way that I did but are also kind of pressured into sleep training because you fear all hell will break loose, then yes, sleep training might not be the right fit for you. And that's ok.

Related Article: How To Survive The 4 Month Sleep Regression With An Actual SMILE

4. How To Know If Sleep Training Is The Right Fit For My Baby

We all hear the apparent success stories of sleep-trained babies. But it would be only fair to mention the fair share of babies for who sleep training doesn't work and probably never will.

And this is also something you need to consider.

If a sleep consultant tells you not to look into your baby's eyes, you better run!

Babies have different temperaments. Some are easygoing and have no problem switching from one sleep space to another. Others are stage-4 clingers (also known as my son) that need your breath in your face all night long.

Will sleep training work on easygoing babies? Probably.

Will sleep training work on high-need babies or highly sensitive children? Probably not.

It is just a fact that you cannot improve your baby's sleep without considering their temperament. For example, I handled my son's sleep differently than my daughter's. They are very different in temperament, and what worked for my girl did not work for my son.

Another very important thing to consider is that there might be other underlying causes that lead to your baby's poor sleep. For example, an underlying health issue can be the root cause of a baby's increasingly fragmented sleep.

On the other hand, developmental milestones can also interfere with your baby's sleep. Separation anxiety, sleep regressions, and cognitive development can all have an impact on sleep.

And what are you going to do? Tell your baby's brain not to grow? Please don't.

Related Article: Low Sleep Needs Babies & Toddlers - How Much Sleep Your Child Really Needs

5. There Is Also A Thing Called Normal Baby Sleep

When I became a mom I had no idea what normal baby sleep looked like.

I didn't know that a million other babies would rather sleep in their parent's arms than in the crib.

I didn't know that it was normal that babies had short naps.

I didn't really have a clue what I could and should expect from my baby.

And many sleep training programs don't take this into account either. It's often ignored that interrupted nighttime sleep for at least the first year is actually biologically normal. It's not often discussed that night wakings are a protective measure.

Your baby's sleep skills are not a reflection of your parenting skills.

Instead, normal baby sleep behavior is often falsely advertised as a result of spoiling a baby, using sleep associations like rocking or nursing to sleep. Sometimes parents are even told that their baby is not getting enough restorative sleep.

I mean, you basically can tell by looking at your baby if they had enough sleep or not. If your baby is happy and content throughout the day, it means that they are getting enough sleep even if they woke five times at night.

My baby had the audacity to smile right into my face in the morning just as if she didn't wake up 100 times during the night.

So before you set your expectations too high, it is important to understand what normal baby sleep actually looks like. Just a hint: expecting a 12-week old baby to sleep 12 hours is not normal.

Related Article: Baby Sleep - What To REALLY Expect 0-12 Months

6. What Happens If You Don't Sleep Train?

Ok, so let's cut to the chase: what happens if you don't sleep train?

Here is your answer: NOTHING.

I assume you are here because you have a tendency not to sleep train, so I hope this gives you some peace of mind.

Nothing will happen if you don't sleep train. Your baby will eventually sleep. Maybe not with 6 months or 12 months. There is really no way of knowing when your baby will sleep on their own. As they grow, they will develop their own sleep pattern. It can happen from one day to another. And it will happen, even if you don't sleep train.

Sleeping through the night is a developmental milestone that every baby reaches at a different age. And even if you choose not to intervene with sleep training, your little one will get there.

Related Article: Why Is My Baby Suddenly Taking Short Naps? Here Is The Answer!

7. The Alternatives To Conventional Sleep Training

If conventional sleep training is not for you, it doesn't mean that there is nothing you can do to improve your baby's sleep.

You also don't have to wait it out.

There are many different ways you can improve your baby's sleep. Introducing a bedtime routine, using age-appropriate wake windows, and gently introducing new sleep associations are only a few means that can improve your baby's sleep.

And they have nothing to do with sleep training.

Related Article: Wake Windows For Newborns - When To Start And What You Need To Know

8. Conclusion

Sometimes parents are exposed to so many different opinions and information out there that they forget to trust their instinct. But the thing is, there is not one formula that works for every baby.

This is also not about choosing one side or another. It's about doing what feels right for you and your family.

Before you start to implement something because someone out there tells you to, always ask yourself this:

"Is my current situation really bothering me?"

I know so many parents who are totally ok with night wakings or helping their baby fall asleep but are so confused if what they are doing is wrong.

If you already feel hesitant about sleep training, then you don't need to listen to more advice out there. Instead, you should call it a day and trust your decision.

Whether you sleep train your baby or not, every parent will experience challenges throughout the first years of their child's life. That's just how babies work.

Figuring out the right time to get your baby to sleep can be a real challenge for new parents. You might be so desperate that you are even close to asking the stars for guidance (which means you are close to getting crazy). But don't worry! With our list of early tired signs, you will never miss the right moment again!

The newborn phase definitely has some advantages. One advantage is, for example, that your fresh baby will fall back asleep 5 minutes after they open their eyes.

But as your baby gets older and stays awake for a longer time, it doesn't seem that easy anymore. Now they don't just fall asleep. No.

Now, YOU have to figure out the right time to get them ready for sleep.

But figuring out the right time to put baby down for a nap or the night is not always that easy. Some babies don't show any tired signs. Others are happy until suddenly all hell breaks loose during your bedtime routine.

LEARN MORE >>

Whether you have a baby whose sleepy cues are hard to read or a little one who goes from 0 to 100, with our full list of early sleep cues, you will never miss the right time to put baby down again.

1. What Are Baby Sleep Cues?

Baby sleep cues are the signals that babies give off when they're feeling sleepy or tired. These cues are a way for your baby to communicate that they're ready for some rest. Recognizing these cues is essential for figuring out the right time to get your baby to sleep.

If you try to put your baby to sleep too early, you will deal with an undertired and still energetic baby. On the other hand, if your baby is up for too long, you have an overtired baby on your hands who's now really high on adrenaline. Both babies won't sleep well. They will either have a short nap and wake after their first sleep cycle, or they will cry down the house. Either way, it's not really pleasant for everybody involved.

That's why sleep cues can be so helpful. By learning to read the right tired signs, you can get them to sleep just in time.

2. The Different Types Of Sleep Cues

But here is the tricky part. Sleep cues are not just sleep cues. There are, in fact, three types of sleep cues you should look out for: early sleep cues, late sleep cues, and overtired signs.

Early sleep cues indicate that your baby is just starting to get tired and are soon ready to sleep.

Late sleep cues signal that your baby is ready to sleep right now. They should be all prepped for bed and ready to be settled to sleep.

Overtired signs indicate that your baby is already awake longer than they could actually handle.

Early sleep cues can be very subtle and easy to miss. As your baby gets more tired, their tired signs will progress and intensify until they eventually show signs of being overtired.

Related Article: Baby Sleep Cues - The Secret To Recognizing Baby Tired Signs

3. Typical Early Sleep Cues

Early sleep cues are your best friend. And they are the best indicator to tell you that your baby needs to sleep soon.

However, as mentioned before, it can sometimes be challenging to spot them. That's why you sometimes have to observe your baby very closely to detect them.

Sleep cues can vary from baby to baby. Some babies will also come up with their very own sleep cues. But there is a good list of common baby sleep cues that can be seen in the majority of babies.

Typical Early sleep cues are:

• redness around eyes/ red eyebrows
• glassy eyes, slow blinking
• blank stares
• looking for caregiver
• losing interest in their surroundings
• avoiding eye contact with people besides caregiver
• wanting to be carried
• slightly jerky movements, kicking legs

4. How To Read Your Baby's Early Sleep Cues

Most likely, your baby will not show every sleep cue mentioned in the list. Some babies will show more, others less sleepy signs.

That is why you need to observe your baby closely to determine their individual tired cues. What signs are they showing regularly and repetitively? This is often a process of trial and error. It can take some time until you completely figure out your baby's early cues.

Related Article: Newborn Sleep Cues Vs. Hunger Cues - Here Is How To Figure It Out

5. What If My Baby Doesn't Show Early Sleep Cues?

Well, it can happen. Sometimes babies will make a pause in showing their usual tired signs just like that without any warning. I mean, why not, right?!

Then again, your life is very busy, and it can be easy to miss a tired sign. Sometimes babies will also skip the early signs and jump right to the late sleep cues. Still, you should not worry about it too much because, in that case, you can use wake windows to determine when your baby needs to sleep again. Wake windows can help you determine the right awake time for your baby and can also help you know when to look out for those possible early sleep cues.

Related Article: How To Survive The 4 Month Sleep Regression With An Actual SMILE

6. What If My Baby Shows Early Sleep Cues Before A Full Wake Window

The great thing about early sleep cues is that your baby doesn't need to get to sleep ASAP. They are still content, and you still have time to get them ready for sleep. So even if your baby shows first tired signs before hitting a full wake window, you don't need to stress about it.

You can lengthen your nap or bedtime routine and include some extra cuddles or books. Remember, the wake windows only end when your baby falls asleep, and that can still take some time.

Related Article: Finding Better Sleep With a Sleep Schedule

7. Wake Window Or Sleep Cue?

It really depends on your baby's temperament and their age to see which one will work better. In general, newborns and very young babies show more intense sleep cues than older babies and toddlers.

Some parents find that sleep cues work better for babies younger than one year. After that, babies nap much less during the day, and their awake times increase. So it is just natural that they get a dip in energy or mood, and that can make reading sleep cues really tricky. That's why many parents find wake windows more helpful for older babies.

For many, a combination of both sleep cues and wake windows works very well. Wake windows can give you kind of a heads-up when to look for tired signs.

Related Article: Here Is How To Get Your Newborn Baby To Sleep In The Bassinet - And It's s Actually Really Easy

8. Tips For Putting Baby To Sleep After Seeing Early Sleep Cues

Now that you know that your little one is ready to sleep, it's time to get ready!

Here is a list of what you can do to unwind your baby:

1. Slowly end your current play

If your little one is engaged in playing, you should not just abruptly stop but gently wean them out of the play. Even for little babies, it can be quite irritating if you drag them out of their play.

2. Create a calm environment

Remove all the noisy toys and turn off the tv to create a calm and quiet environment. You can dim the lights where you are having your nap or bedtime routine to get your baby in the mood for sleep.

3. Be calm yourself

Babies have the best stress receptors in the world. Even if you are only slightly in a hurry, they will pick up on that. Your behavior will be reflected in their behavior. So the calmer you do things, the better.

4. Nap/Bedtime routine

A routine before sleep is a great way to wind down. Nap routines should be relatively short, while the bedtime routine can be a little bit more extensive. It also depends on your baby's age. The younger the baby, the shorter the routine should be. You can end the routine by reading a book.

5. Have extra cuddles

Some extra cuddles before sleep are a great way to fill your baby's emotional cup. Sleep means separation from their caregiver, so the more you fill their emotional needs, the better they will sleep.

Remember, recognizing your baby's sleep cues is a process. As your baby grows, their sleep patterns will change, and so might their sleep cues. But you will also get to know your baby better every day, and at some point, you will be just able to pinpoint the time they need to snooze!

Hey tired momma! Welcome to the wonderful and slightly confusing world of wake windows for newborns. I know it can be overwhelming to navigate this new territory, but don't worry! We will uncover all the secrets of baby wake windows and answer all your questions in this article!

I swear, until I became a mom, I had never heard about wake windows in my entire life. To be honest, I didn't know much about baby sleep either. I knew newborns sleep a lot. But I also thought they would just sleep when they were tired.

HA HA HA, says every sleep-deprived mom on the planet (with a little tear in their eye).

If it was that simple, right?

Well, baby sleep doesn't work that way. Babies don't just sleep when they are tired. Babies have different stages of tiredness. They are undertired, tired, or overtired. You and I cannot relate because we are just goddamn tired.

LEARN MORE >>

But, well, it matters for our babies, so I guess it matters for us, too.

And that's when wake windows come into play. The right wake window or awake time will help your baby get into the right amount of tiredness, so they sleep better. So let's learn everything about wake windows, how they help your baby sleep better, and how to figure out just the right amount of wake time for your newborn.

1. What Are Wake Windows?

First things first, what exactly are wake windows?

In short, they're the amount of time your baby can stay awake before needing to go back to sleep. The wake window starts the minute your baby opens their eyes and ends when they sleep again.

Your baby's sleep pattern will change a lot in the first two years of their life, and so will their wake windows. Wake windows always vary depending on baby's age and individual sleep needs.

2. Why Are Wake Windows Important?

Let me tell you something: WAKE WINDOWS MATTER!

Whether you have a 2-month-old or a 2-year-old. They will still matter!

Why? Because they play a crucial role in regulating your baby's sleep pressure. Sleep pressure describes the need for sleep after a specific amount of time. If sleep pressure is just about right, your baby will fall asleep easily, might sleep for a longer stretch, or have a longer nap.

However, if your baby is not tired enough and hasn't built up enough sleep pressure, you might end up with a short nap, a baby that wakes shortly after bedtime or the nightmare for all parents, a baby that is up for 2 hours in the middle of the night to play.

On the other hand, if your baby is up for too long, they can get overtired, and this will also reflect in their sleeping behavior. They become unsettled, have trouble falling asleep, and experience early morning wakes. They will also have high cortisol levels, which can lead to more disrupted nighttime sleep.

So as you can see, you can only do it wrong.

No, I am just kidding.

That's exactly why we have our beloved wake windows. They help us determine the right amount of time our baby needs to be awake to get them to sleep well.

Related Article: Baby Has Days And Nights Mixed Up? 10 Steps To Fix Your Baby's Day Night Confusion

3. Do Wake Windows Matter For Newborns?

So do wake windows matter for newborns? The short answer is yes and no. It really depends on how you make use of wake windows.

If you have a 2-week-old baby, you shouldn't need to watch the clock wondering if your baby was awake long enough. Newborns sleep a lot. They don't have a regular sleep pattern, and their circadian rhythm has not developed yet. They might still have day-night confusion, sleep most of the day, and party all night.

Also, this is a very delicate phase for new moms. Your postpartum experience should not revolve around your baby's awake window. I know, we are all obsessed about our baby's sleep but this is not the the time yet.

Give yourself and your baby a few weeks to adjust to this new world.

Related Article: 12 Ultimate Tips On How To Survive The Newborn Stage And Thrive As A New Mom

4. When Should You Start Using Wake Windows?

I always tell parents to go with tired cues for babies under 6 weeks. Whenever your baby seems tired, just get them to sleep. Wake windows should only help you prevent your baby from getting overtired.

If your baby is 6 weeks or older than that, then you may start to tweak your baby's awake time to achieve better sleep. At this age, your baby starts to become more aware of their surroundings, and they are able to have longer stretches of wake time.

The goal is not to have a strict sleep schedule. But by slightly increasing your baby's awake time, they might nap better during the day and sleep better at night.

More consistent wake windows can also help your baby develop a more regulated and predictable sleep pattern. It might also help you with your first sleep regression, which usually hits at 3-4 months.

Related Article: Newborn Sleepy Cues - The Solution To Get Your Baby To Sleep Fast & Easy

5. How To Figure Out The Right Wake Window For My Newborn

Figuring out the right wake window can appear tricky in the beginning. But it is not hard-core science. We leave that for the sleep regressions.

In general, you should start out with the recommended wake windows for different ages. These are general recommendations, and most babies fall into these ranges. But as usual, every baby is unique, and according to your baby's individual sleep needs, you may need to adjust their wake window slightly.

Typical wake windows for newborns (up to 4 months) look like this:

I suggest you start with the lower range of the recommended wake window. Then, you will see how your baby keeps up with that wake window and how well they nap/sleep.

Also, pay close attention to their sleepy cues. Fussy behavior before a nap can be signs of an overtired baby. If your baby doesn't show tired signs, you can increase the wake window by 5-10 minutes.

6. FAQ Wake Windows For Newborns

1. How Should I Start With Wake Windows?

Starting with wake windows for a newborn can be tricky. Your little one probably is only used to staying awake for a very short amount of time.

Make an easy introduction by stretching the wake window every two days by 5 minutes until you reach the recommended length.

You can try the following to stretch your baby's wake window:

• Distract them: Look out of the window or go outside. Talk to them and show them things. These are great ways of interacting with your baby, and it is super interesting for them.
• Have low-key activities: If you want your baby to get used to longer wake windows, integrate low-key activities so they don't get overstimulated fast. Keep a quiet but bright environment.

2. What If My Newborn Cannot Stay Awake For The Recommended Wake Windows

Your baby is still very young, and you cannot force them to stay awake without paying the price of having an overtired newborn. Whenever your newborn shows several tired signs, get them to sleep. Using wake windows is simply sometimes a process of trial and error.

Your baby also needs time to get used to new wake windows.

3. Are Wake Windows The Same During The Whole Day?

Even during the day, wake windows will vary slightly. Usually, the first wake window of the day (until the morning nap) and the wake window before bedtime are the shortest. Sleep pressure is the highest at this time of the day, so you might want to decrease your usual wake window slightly.

4. Do I Need To Use A Newborn Sleep Schedule?

A strict sleep schedule will not work for a newborn baby. While it can be a helpful tool for older babies and toddlers, newborn sleep is still very unpredictable.

With wake windows you are more flexible, and their nap times will most likely vary from day to day (which is normal for newborns).

Related Article: Ultimate Newborn Sleep Tips That Are Super Easy To Implement

5. How Do I Calculate The Time I Put My Newborn To Sleep?

Falling asleep takes time, and this time also counts as awake time. It is normal for your newborn to take up to 20 minutes to fall asleep. So the nap or bedtime routine and the time your baby needs to fall asleep should also be taken into account.

I suggest getting baby ready for sleep 20 minutes earlier, so you don't risk your baby getting overtired shortly before falling asleep.

6. How Do I Know If The Wake Window Is Right?

There are several indicators that will tell you that the wake windows are right. These are, for example:

• baby falls asleep within 20 minutes
• baby settles easily to sleep without crying
• baby wakes up happy from nap
• baby doesn't seem tired right after waking up from nap
• baby doesn't wake after first sleep cycle after bedtime
• baby has naps that are longer than one sleep cycle (1-2 hours)

7. What Is The Best Bedtime For My Newborn?

Instead of focusing on a specific time, you should use the last nap of the day to determine bedtime. Sometimes newborns have late bedtimes because they nap late in the afternoon. Other newborns have bedtimes as early as 6:30 PM.

In the early months, bedtime should be flexible and always depend on the last nap and the right wake window.

7. Wake Windows Will Not Get Your Newborn To Sleep Through The Night

I know we are all guilty of doing it. We all thought, what can I do so my newborn will sleep through the night?

Well, I just can tell you that newborns and such young babies are not supposed to sleep through the night.

So what's with all the wake windows, you might ask…

Well, wake windows can work really great to improve your baby's naps and the way they fall asleep. Short naps, aka cat naps, are very common at this age. With the right wake window, you can help your baby nap longer. Nap time is actually a great indicator if wake windows work or not. If you see your baby's daytime sleep improving, then it's a sign that the wake windows are working.

Related Article: The Wake To Sleep Method Explained - A Step-By-Step Guide

Also, many babies seem to fight sleep at this particular age. They can also go through the phase of purple crying, also known as the witching hour. Wake windows can also help here. You can prevent your baby from getting overtired, and they will have a much easier time settling to sleep.

Related Article: Why Is My Baby Fighting Sleep?

However, it is important to remember that at this age, there is only so much we can do about our baby's sleep. Your baby's sleep behavior depends on many different factors that are sometimes out of our control. Your baby's temperament, their age, genetics, and evolutionary behavior, they all contribute to how your baby sleeps. We can use wake windows, every sleep tip possible, and sleep training trying to improve our baby's sleep, but in the end, you have to remind yourself that you have a baby and not a robot.

With that said, healthy sleep habits are never a bad thing to try. They set the path for good sleep in the future and are a great method to improve your baby's sleep in a realistic way.

Is there any parent out there that is not nap-obsessed? We all live on our baby's naps. But what happens when our little ones suddenly start to take short naps out of nowhere? If you are recently struggling with short naps or have been blessed with a cute catnapper, then continue reading to find out where those short naps are coming from.

Oh, the joys of parenthood. One minute your baby is snoozing away for hours on end, and the next thing you know, they're taking naps shorter than a TikTok video.

How could that happen so suddenly?

Well, the first you need to know is that nothing is predictable when it comes to baby sleep. They can sleep through the night one day, and the other, they wake every single hour. And this still counts as normal.

So here you are, scratching your head and wondering why your little one doesn't nap anymore and how things changed so quickly.

Nap time is not for my baby. Nap time is for me!

Well, you are kinda in luck. I know…the audacity. But we've got the scoop on why your baby is suddenly taking short naps and what you can do about it. So pick up that coffee cup and get ready for some serious nap-time investigation.

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1. What Is A Short Nap?

We "consider" a nap as short when it is 45 minutes or shorter. Usually, babies wake after their first sleep cycle, which is usually 20-45 minutes long.

While short naps can be really frustrating for parents, you should know that they are not bad for your baby and that they are totally a thing for them. Short naps are normal for different ages and developmental stages of your baby.

So without further ado, let's take a closer look at all the possible reasons why your baby might be suddenly taking short naps.

2. Reasons Why Baby Suddenly Has Short Naps

Baby Sleep Regression

Your baby will go through several sleep regressions in the first 2 years of life. A sleep regression is a period of time in which your baby's sleep deteriorates due to changes in their cognitive or physical abilities.

The most intense sleep regressions happen at 4,8, and 12 months. During this period, it is very common for babies to suddenly start to catnap. The 4 month sleep regression is often the one that takes parents by surprise.

Related Article: The 4 Big Sleep Regressions

Physical Development Milestones

Physical milestones like crawling and walking can have a huge impact on your baby's sleep. Babies don't distinguish between day and night when it comes to practicing newly acquired skills. They will stand or sit up the minute they open their eyes and sometimes don't know how to get out of that situation again. Both my children had their most intense phases of bad sleep when they started to walk at around 1 year.

Illness, Pain, And Discomfort

Any kind of discomfort can cause your baby to take short naps. Especially teething, reflux, or tummy troubles can lead to cat naps.

At around 12 to 16 months, most babies get their first molars which can be very uncomfortable. Tummy troubles are very common in babies younger than 4 months. Their digestive system has not yet developed, leading to uncomfortable gas and bloating.

Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety can be a leading factor for sudden short naps. Babies often develop strong separation anxiety at 8 and 18 months. Separation anxiety is often associated with cognitive development.

At 8 months, babies develop object permanence. This is the understanding that objects still exist even when they cannot be seen. At 18 months, they develop self-awareness. Only then they understand that they are a separate human being.

Isn't it incredible that until then, our babies think that they and we are one single being? How big of a change is that? All these heavy cognitive developments can lead to short naps.

Upcoming Nap Transition

Nap transitions can sometimes lead to short naps. When babies are about to drop a nap, they naturally start to take shorter naps or wake earlier from their nap than usual.

Related Article: The Scary Afternoon Nap - Why Is The Last Nap Of The Day So Hard

3. Other Common Reasons For Cat Naps

Overtiredness

You and I are probably so tired we could fall asleep anywhere and anytime. But it doesn't work like that with babies.

If your baby stays up for longer than their body can handle, their cortisol levels will rise, and they will not only have a hard time falling asleep, but they will also wake after their first sleep cycle because of their high cortisol levels.

Related Article: Typical Signs of an Overtired Baby and How to Get Them to Sleep

Undertiredness

Often parents are so afraid of having to deal with an overtired baby that they end up putting their baby to sleep too early.

Yes, the undertired baby is real. If your baby is not awake for the right amount of time, they don't build up enough sleep pressure to sleep longer than for one sleep cycle.

Related Article: The Undertired Baby Is Real - 5 Signs Your Baby Is Undertired

Hunger

Hunger plays a big role for young infants. If your baby is younger than 4 months, hunger can be a leading cause for your baby to take short naps.

Such young babies need frequent milk feeds every 1.5-2 hours. They also often fall asleep while nursing before having a full feed and then nap only with their tummy half full.

4. 10 Tips For Short Naps

I just want to remind you that you do not have to "fight" cat naps if they don't bother you or your baby. A shorter nap is not less restorative than a long nap, and it will not influence your baby's nighttime sleep.

If, however, you want to tackle your baby's short naps for your own's sake, I've got some easy-to-implement tips on how you can achieve a longer nap.

Keep an Eye on Age-Appropriate Wake Windows

If your baby is up for longer than they can handle, their body will release stress hormones causing them to wake shortly after they have fallen asleep. On the other hand, if your baby is not tired enough, a short nap will be sufficient enough for the next round of play. That is why age-appropriate wake windows are key. If your little one shows tired signs before you put them to bed but then fights you, they are probably overtired. If they were in a good mood but falling asleep takes a very long time, they are probably undertired.

Related Article: Baby Treating Bedtime As A Nap? Here Is What To Do When Baby Is Up Again

Rule Out Hunger

Very young babies need frequent feeds, and nap for 2 hours is a long time without any milk. "Eat, play, sleep" is a very widely known routine for babies. However, when your baby is not on solids yet, having another milk feed might help to extend that nap.

Create the Optimal Sleep Environment

When your baby wakes from their sleep cycle, you want a comfortable and sleep-inducing environment that helps them fall back to sleep easily. Try to eliminate all possible sleep disturbances, as babies spend a lot of time in light sleep and can wake easily.

Daylight plays a very big role. After 4 months, babies get very interested in their surroundings, sometimes preventing them from settling. So, you might prefer putting your baby down for a nap in a dark environment.

Keep a Flexible Sleep Schedule

A schedule will help babies from up to 2 months create a consistent sleep routine that adjusts their inner body clock to regular nap times. Your schedule should be flexible as your baby will not wake up exactly at the same time every day, and activities vary from day to day. It will also help you better keep track of your baby's awake time because the right wake windows will promote better napping as well. But following a rough nap schedule will not only help them sleep longer, but they also will settle easier to sleep in the evening.

Help Your Baby Get Used to Their Sleeping Environment

This especially applies to older babies (9+ months). If your little one is not comfortable falling asleep in their sleep space, they will have trouble staying asleep during naps. Try to encourage falling asleep in bed. This is not an easy task to do and may take a couple of weeks. But once your baby has the hang out of falling asleep at the beginning of nap-time in their bed (parental presence is always ok!), they will sleep for a longer stretch as well. For children older than 1 you can also introduce safe loveys or toys that they can keep in their bed. They can help them settle back to sleep.

Embrace Contact Naps

Oh no, I did it. I'm telling you something that conventional sleep trainers probably would not do. Take advantage of contact naps. Many young babies sleep perfectly when they are close to their parent. It's a normal thing that derives from natural and evolutionary human behavior. Your baby simply feels completely safe when with you. I know it may sometimes feel like a trap, but try to embrace and enjoy it. Sit down somewhere safe and feel that warm baby on your breast (and, oh my god, smell them). If you feel too restricted. You can also use a carrier or a sling with which you will still have your arms free.

Create A New Passive Sleep Prop

Sometimes older babies rely heavily on parental help to fall asleep, such as feeding or rocking to sleep. While a sleep association is not bad, it might reinforce catnapping behavior. Try to introduce passive sleep associations such as white noise and a sleep sack. You can also try to use soothing methods such as shushing, patting, and stroking. These are usually not that strong sleep associations like rocking or feeding.

5. A Method That Will Get Your Baby To Nap Longer

If you have already searched the entire internet on how you can lengthen your baby's short nap, then you might have read about the wake-to-sleep method.

The Wake-to-Sleep method is a gentle sleep training approach with which you reset your baby's internal clock and teach them to connect sleep cycles.

The general idea is to wake your baby before they wake up. When they arouse, you will help them back to sleep. This way, they learn to connect sleep cycles and will eventually sleep longer.

If you want to learn more about the wake-to-sleep method, then you need to read my blog post about this method and how it helped both my babies to stop catnapping.

Related Article: The Wake To Sleep Method Explained - A Step-By-Step Guide

6. How To Cope With Your Baby's Short Naps

It's important to understand that every baby is different and that infant sleep is never linear. While it can be tempting to compare your baby to others, it's more important to focus on their individual needs and be patient with them.

Remind yourself that this is only a phase that shall pass, too. It may feel long at this day, but the truth is that it is only a very short fraction of your child's life.

Don't obsess about your baby's short naps. Sometimes we focus on one behavior so much that it is all we can see. Learn to control your thoughts and ground yourself when those short naps are catching up to you.

And finally, take care of yourself. Self-care is often not a priority for many parents. But taking proper care of yourself and your needs as an individual will have a huge positive impact on your parenting.

7. Baby's Short Naps FAQ

Is catnapping bad for my baby?

Cat napping is not bad for your baby. Some sleep consultants will tell parents that long naps are more restorative than short naps, but that is not the case. Your baby will give you a straight answer. If they are having cat naps but are still happy during the day, how can they be bad? The only thing that is crucial for healthy baby sleep is that your baby gets enough overall daytime sleep. It doesn't matter if they achieve this through long or short naps.

However, if your baby is grumpy because they don't get the overall sleep and you fear it is interfering with night sleep, then you might need to think about trying to extend their naps.

Should I resettle if my baby wakes from a short nap?

Sometimes babies will wake shortly between sleep cycles. They might make noises but fall back to sleep fairly quickly. If your baby is not crying, you can give it 5-10 minutes to see if they fall back to sleep. If they cry, it's really up to you if you want to resettle them or not. However, if they were awake for too long, it will be quite difficult to get them back to sleep.

My baby sleeps well at night but has short naps. What are the reasons?

Interestingly many babies sleep very well at night but nap poorly during the day. For one, your baby is getting so much quality sleep without almost no interruptions, they might have a lower sleep drive during the day. The overall amount of hours of sleep your baby needs in 24 hours will be the same. The amount of sleep they get during the day will be compensated at night. So instead of focusing too much on their short naps, figure out how much sleep they need overall. If they are happy and content even though they have short naps, then everything is fine.

Will my baby grow out of short naps?

Yes, all babies will eventually grow out of short naps. And not only because they give up napping completely but because cat napping is normal young infant behavior. As your baby grows, their sleep pattern matures, and their sleep cycle becomes adult-like. Most babies outgrow catnapping between 9-12 months.

If you landed here, then you've probably in for a fight: the afternoon nap fight. Suddenly your baby just doesn't want to nap in the afternoon anymore. But you are not alone. Many parents around the world fight this fight. But it doesn't have to be like that. Continue reading to find out more.

Afternoon naps can be a real battle. Over are the newborn days when your little one fell asleep anytime and anywhere. They wouldn't care if it was day or night. They would just snooze.

But now things have changed. Your baby got bigger, and so did their interest in the world. Day by day, the afternoon nap started to become a struggle. Instead of sleeping, your little one's eyes are wide open, analyzing their environment with great interest. Meanwhile, you are jumping up and down, going back and forth, thinking to yourself, "why don't you just sleep, please?"

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So what is it about that dreaded afternoon nap? Why is the last nap of the day so hard to achieve?

Well, believe me, you are not alone. You are not the only parent trying to desperately get their baby to sleep, and your baby is not the only baby driving their parent crazy.

In this article, we will discuss why babies have a hard time falling asleep in the afternoon and what you can do to get them to sleep peacefully without walking a thousand miles.

1. Why Is The Afternoon Nap So Hard?

I have seen babies that sleep through the night but would not nap in the afternoon. Ok, those were not my babies, but still. Even if you have the best snoozer at nighttime, you can still end up in a nap battle in the afternoon.

But how come babies have such a hard time falling asleep in the afternoon?

Naturally, the afternoon nap is harder to achieve, just like the morning nap is the easiest of all. The drive for sleep is the lowest at this time of the day.

There are several reasons for that. But the main reason your baby starts to fight the afternoon nap is simply that they are getting older.

As your little one grows, they need less sleep. They have less sleep pressure during the day, and they are much more interested in the world around them than in sleeping.

2. Reasons For Nap Refusals

The growing age plays a main role, but there are other causes that can lead to regular nap refusals. Let's take a closer look at all the possible reasons for nap refusals.

4 Month Sleep Regression

This one you just got to love. The 4 month sleep regression does not only bless you with frequent night wakings and a grumpy baby. No, it also comes with nap battles. This sleep regression can start between 3-5 months of age.

Related Article: How To Survive The 4 Month Sleep Regression With An Actual SMILE

Low Sleep Pressure

If your baby has a lunch nap, chances are that they are not tired enough in the afternoon to take another nap. Midday naps are super restorative for babies, and if they have a good stretch of sleep for about 1.5-2 hours, they are not going to develop enough sleep pressure for the afternoon nap.

Related Article: The Undertired Baby Is Real - 5 Signs Your Baby Is Undertired

Nap Transition

If our baby is around 7-8 months, they might approach their first real nap transition. At this age, most babies drop their afternoon nap completely. Typical signs of an upcoming nap transition are fighting naps, taking a lot of time to fall asleep, and bedtime becoming late.

No Regular Naps

While you do not need to follow a strict nap schedule, regular naps can be helpful. It's easier to spot under- and overtiredness and can better predict when the next nap is going to happen. Usually, babies develop a regular nap pattern on their own after about 2 months. But if your baby's naps are all over the place, it can be really difficult to achieve that last nap of the day.

Related Article: Finding Better Sleep With a Sleep Schedule

Overtiredness

If you have a baby younger than 6 months, they might be overtired by the time you are trying to get them to sleep. Young babies are very prone to getting overtired in the afternoon. Their cortisol levels are too high to fall asleep, and they get either hyperactive or are inconsolably crying.

Related Article: Typical Signs of an Overtired Baby and How to Get Them to Sleep

Sensitive Babies

Together with overtiredness, sensitive babies and very young babies up to 3 months experience something that is called purple crying. All the stimulation from the day accumulates, and they get unsettled or cry inconsolably. This can already start in the late afternoon. Often parents then try to get their baby to sleep but fail.

Sleep Environment

The sleep environment can also play a role. If your baby is exposed to too many distractions, they can have a hard time falling asleep.

FOMO

You and I are not the only ones suffering from FOMO. Your baby is just like us, having a fear of missing something out on something. A bird, a car, or the 100th time playing peekaboo. It may not be huge for us, but it is definitely huge for them.

I don't think my baby realizes that that nap is not for them but for me.

3. How To Get Your Baby To Nap In The Afternoon

Now let's talk business: how can we get that baby to sleep without a fight?

Figure Out if They Really Need a Nap

We are all grieving every single daytime nap we have to let go. I mean, nap time is holy to us. I get it. But sometimes, it's for the greater good. You need to figure out if your baby really needs that nap or if maybe they are indeed ready to drop it.

If your baby shows any of the following signs, they are probably ready to drop the afternoon nap:

• Your baby is about 7 months old
• Your baby fights the afternoon nap for more than a week
• Bedtime becomes late
• Your baby is in a pretty good mood in the afternoon nap and doesn't seem that tired
• They take a long time to fall asleep in the afternoon
• They wake up at night to play
• Night sleep gets increasingly disrupted by night wakings
• Their nighttime sleep decreases

If your baby shows some of those signs, you might need to consider cutting the nap completely. In my other blog article, you can find out how to make the nap transition as easy as possible for your baby (and you).

Related Article: When Do Babies Transition To Two Naps? Signs Your Baby Is Ready For 2 Naps

Read Baby's Tired Signs

Timing is key when it comes to daytime sleep. Reading your baby's tired signs is crucial to figure out the right napping time for your baby. When your baby doesn't show any sleep cues before the afternoon nap, it means they are not ready for it.

Tweak Your Naps

Baby naps can be a really delicate matter. 15 minutes are not just 15 minutes in the baby sleep world. 15 minutes can change the whole nap game.

In order to achieve a stress-free afternoon nap, you might need to shorten the nap before and increase the wake window until your afternoon nap. A longer nap and too short wake time before the afternoon nap will decrease your chances of getting your baby to sleep.

Have The Nap On The Go

When it comes to the afternoon nap, the main goal is just to get your baby to sleep. It's as simple as that. Don't worry about bad sleep habits or sleep associations. Just get that baby to sleep ANY WAY YOU CAN. Drop the pre-nap routine and all your expectations about how your baby should fall asleep.

Having the nap on the go is often the easiest way to get a baby to sleep. Use the stroller or carrier to get your baby to sleep. The combination of movement and going outside is the sleep potion that works for many babies.

Check The Environment

Whether you are having the nap on the go or outside, make sure you are not facing too many disruptions. If you have the nap at home, keep it dark and quiet. When you are outside, prefer quiet streets where not too much is going on.

Keep Your Cool

I know it can be difficult to stay calm and relaxed when your baby is having a nap strike or screams because they just don't want to nap. But you need to remind yourself that you are your baby's source of calm.

Babies are extremely receptive to stress, and they feel every little cortisol drop in your system. If you are all stressed out, they are never going to go down peacefully.

Give It Time

It is completely normal for your baby to need time to fall asleep. Everything between 10-20 minutes is actually quite good. Give them the time they need to unwind from everything they experienced until now.

Stop After 30 Minutes

If you have been trying to get your baby to sleep for more than 30 minutes, then it is definitely time to stop for your and your baby's sanity.

If you believe they do need that nap, then you can try again in half an hour. Until then, give yourself a break.

4. What To Do If You Baby Doesn't Nap

If your baby doesn't nap, don't panic. I guarantee you they will survive. Remind yourself that you can never force sleep on your baby. And your mental health will be better off if you stop fighting.

If Your Baby Is Unsettled

I know it can be difficult to have an unsettled baby on your hands. But it is not your job to prevent every little cry. Just support their emotions with your calm. Use soothing techniques like rocking, nursing, and a pacifier. If your baby wants to nurse frequently, just let them be. Or go out for a walk even if your baby doesn't sleep. Getting outside always works wonders for crying babies.

For yourself, you can use headphones or earplugs to reduce the volume of their crying, so it doesn't get to you. You can listen to affirmations, classical music, or nature sounds to help you keep calm.

Related Article: 10 Amazing Tricks to Calm a Crying Baby

If Your Baby Is Happy

If your baby is actually doing fine and doesn't sleep because they are not tired enough, then your goal is just to make it to bedtime.

If your baby skipped the afternoon nap, chances are they are going to get tired earlier. It's ok to move bedtime forward, but a bedtime too early can also lead to early morning wakes. Therefore, engage in more quiet time and offer healthy snacks to preserve your baby's energy levels. Have your bedtime routine earlier than usual, so when they get tired, you don't struggle with a crying baby while doing your bedtime routine.

5. FAQ About The Afternoon Nap

Why is the afternoon nap important?

The afternoon nap is practically a bridge to bedtime. Many babies cannot yet handle one long awake time. The afternoon nap can help them make it to bedtime without getting overtired. That's why it is often called a power nap.

How long should the afternoon nap be?

The afternoon nap is usually a very short nap. Most babies even wake by themselves after one sleep cycle. You don't want to go for a too long nap in the afternoon. If you let your baby sleep for too long, then you will need a later bedtime. A 15-25 minutes nap is often enough.

When do most babies drop the afternoon nap?

Most babies show the first signs of dropping the afternoon nap at 6-7 months. That's when the first nap battles can begin. However, most babies drop the nap completely only at 8-9 months.

Until what time should my baby have the afternoon nap?

That really depends on when you want your bedtime to be. Bedtime will always depend on the last nap. I usually recommend not having a nap past 5:30 PM if you want to keep a bedtime of 8:00-8:30 PM.

How much time should be between a baby's last nap and bedtime?

That really depends on your baby's age. For babies around 3-6 months, it is mostly 2 hours. After 6 months, it can be 2.5-3 hours. Watch your baby's tired signs to figure out their individual sleep needs.

Navigating through the first couple of weeks and months as a new mom can be challenging. And if you're here, then you probably need some extra help getting through the tougher times. So here I have 30 postpartum affirmations to lift your spirits and help you cope with newly gained motherhood.

I think we can all agree when I say that nothing will ever change your life more than becoming a parent. The postpartum stage is surely a ride. It can be everything you imagined, from the baby smell to the cuddles. But it also can be anything you never thought of, from emotional rollercoasters to physical challenges.

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I think mothers are divided into two groups. Some enjoy the newborn phase, and others can't wait for it to end. I personally would count myself to the latter group of moms. Unfortunately, I never got myself to really enjoy postpartum or the newborn days as a new mother.

Let's just say it like it is: IT IS FREAKING HARD.

The sleep deprivation, the anxiety of taking care of a human 24/7, the emotional highs and lows. Like honestly, who wouldn't go a little bit insane? And then you have those little conversations with yourself that can really put you down.

"Why does my baby seem so much harder than the other babies?"

"Why does nobody help me?"

It is really difficult to keep your negative feelings in check. Those inner conversations that we have and all those unanswered questions we ask ourselves can drain our energy and mood. We are already prone to going to dark places, and that is why positive affirmations are more important than ever!

Related Article: 20 Powerful And Motivating Motherhood Affirmations

That is why I have collected the 50 most inspiring postpartum affirmations in this article for you. Make it your daily routine to say them out loud and create new positive connections in your brain. Spoken words are more powerful than thoughts. Your mind will thank you.

1. What Is a Positive Affirmation?

So what are affirmations anyway?

An Affirmation is a positive statement that you repeatedly say out loud to overcome negative thinking and self-sabotaging. Thereby, you state them to be the truth and create a new positive mindset about your life. According to the National Science Foundation, the human mind goes through 45k-51k different thoughts per day on average, and guess what: 80% of those thoughts are negative.

A negative thought is always stronger than a positive thought if you don't fight against it. Our brain is naturally wired to think negatively to prepare for the worst-case scenario. It's a simple fight-and-flight technique to save us from potential harm.

2. Do Affirmations Even Work?

A couple of years ago, I was the most skeptical person when it came to positive vibes. But as I was actively working on my mental health, I came to the realization that your mind is really what it hears. That's when affirmations come to play.

They help motivate and encourage you to be the person you want to be and reach the goals you set for yourself. They help you embrace the good things in life and don't leave space for all the negative thoughts.

3. How Can Mothers Benefit From Affirmations?

I will be completely honest with you. I have never been a more confused person than since becoming a mother. When you become a new parent, you are thrown into a jungle of emotions, thoughts, and feelings that we are going through is enormous. Let alone having gone through pregnancy, birth, and now the postpartum period.

You're jumping from one thought to another, doing one thing and thinking about something else. You can feel the whole spectrum of emotions like love, anger, and regret in just 5 minutes. If you and I weren't mothers, I am pretty sure they would call us crazy.

That is why affirmations are so important for mothers. They help keep you grounded and your thoughts in check. They help you regulate your emotions. They will help you to feel better and more confident in your role as a mother. They can teach you to have more compassion for yourself and focus on the positive things.

We will all have our crappy, low-mood days. Mornings that are just stressful. And that is ok. It's part of life. The key is to accept it and move on. And affirmations can help us with exactly that.

So dear mama, I hope that with this list of positive postpartum affirmations, you can find the strength, motivation, and self love you might be looking for.

Related Article: 5 Quotes About the Importance of Self Care for Moms

4. 50 Best Positive Affirmations For Mothers

1. I am going through the most significant change in my life, and I am allowed time to adjust.

2. I am giving myself permission to rest.

3. I will ask for help if I need it. It is ok to let others help me.

4. I am grateful for what I achieved and what I have.

5. I believe in my abilities and myself.

6. I am the best mom for my child, and I am the mom my child needs.

7. I am patient with myself, and I am patient with my baby.

8. I accept my baby the way they are.

9. I am allowed to learn.

10. I am sad and angry, and that is ok. I forgive myself and move on.

11. It is ok to be sensitive. This is a sensitive time.

12. I still have my own identity besides being a mother.

13. I am allowed to have time to myself.

14. I am allowed to assign tasks to others without feeling guilty. I don't need to do it all by myself.

15. I will never regret spending too much time with my baby.

16. I am thankful for being able to stay with my baby.

17. I breathe out the stress and breathe in relaxation.

18. I accept and welcome offered help from friends and family.

19. I will not turn down help.

20. I pay attention to my needs as an individual.

21. The days may feel long sometimes, but this is just a little fraction of my life.

22. Motherhood will change me to become a better person and a better version of myself.

23. I can meet the challenges of motherhood with resilience, strength, and patience.

24. I am the person my child trusts and loves the most.

25. I am choosing to be happy and positive today.

26. I will be fully present in the moment and will not worry about the past or future.

27. Motherhood is not fully what I expected it to be, but that is absolutely ok. Nothing can prepare you for motherhood.

28. I am learning as I grow.

29. My family and my friends love me and support me.

30. I am calm, and I am the source of calm for my baby.

31. I am full of love, peace, and compassion for myself.

32. I don't need to be a perfect mother. No one is a perfect mother.

33. Everyone has their motherhood struggles. Some just hide it better.

34. I listen to my body, and its needs.

35. I choose to have a good day today, no matter what comes.

36. I am choosing happiness today.

37. I am grateful for the family I have.

38. Parents are different, and I will parent my way.

39. It is ok to make mistakes, and I will continue to learn.

40. I am allowed to set boundaries for myself.

41. I am proud of myself and everything I have achieved.

42. The time I invest in my children today will make them great people in the future.

43. My baby's behavior has nothing to do with me, and I don't take it personally.

44. My feelings and emotions are valid.

45. I am doing enough, and I don't need to do it all. No one is expecting me to do it all.

46. I am meeting all the needs of my child.

47. My body is stronger than it has ever been.

48. Every day will get easier.

49. Today is only one day. There are still plenty of days to come.

50. I am choosing to see everything I am doing "right", not the things I am doing "wrong".

5. What Else You Can Do To Make New Motherhood Better

Make your affirmations visible

Write down your affirmations and place them somewhere you can see them often, e.g., on the mirror or refrigerator.

Read them intentionally

Don't just go over your affirmations but read them intentionally. Pause and give yourself time to really digest what the affirmation means to you.

Identify your triggers

Whether it's your baby's cries or your self doubt that is dragging you down, identify your triggers and repeat your affirmations whenever you find something triggering you.

Pause and take your time

Our brains are wired to respond immediately. That is why we often say or respond in ways that we alter regret. Become the master of your reactions. Pause before you allow, say, feel or react in any way.

Practice

We should love ourselves the minute we are born. But unfortunately, we all faced events that grew our self-doubt. But you can learn to love and accept yourself. The key is to practice every day a little bit.

6. Final Thoughts

Being a mother will strain you in many different ways, and feeling better is not achieved within a day or two. Sometimes parenting is all about survival. But get through each day the best you can and practice your positive habits and daily affirmations, and I promise you will get there.

Dreams and nightmares are mysterious and fascinating aspects of our sleep cycle. While we often associate these experiences with adults, it begs the question: can babies have nightmares? In this article, we will explore the current understanding of infant sleep and dreams, as well as provide tips for parents on how to help their little ones if they are experiencing nightmares.

As parents, all we want is to ensure that our babies are safe and comfortable, even during their sleep. We provide them with a safe environment that is supposed to make them sleep peacefully. But when it comes to nightmares, it's a completely different story. It freaks out every parent and wrenches their gut, imagining that their baby is waking up crying from a nightmare.

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So the question is, are babies even capable of having nightmares? In this article, we will dive into the science behind infant dreams and explore the potential causes of nightmares in babies, including the question: can babies really have bad dreams? We will also give you some practical advice on how to support your little one during these scary experiences.

1. Why Does My Baby Wake Up Screaming At Night?

The harsh truth is that you can never truly tell why a baby wakes up crying. There are several potential reasons why a baby may wake up screaming at night. If the screaming continues for some time and is not related to an illness, then these might be some possible causes:

1. Baby's Temperament

To this day, this gets overlooked a lot. Temperament plays a big role when it comes to baby sleep. There are some babies that will always wake up screaming no matter what you do. My secondborn was like that. He continued this behavior until the age of 3. Whenever he woke up in the middle of the night, he would not whimper quietly. No, he would literally scream my ear off. That was just him.

2. Hunger

This is one common reason why babies wake up crying. Hunger is an intense feeling for babies and can quickly lead to crying. For the first year, it is very normal for babies to wake up hungry in the middle of the night.

3. Reflux

Reflux, stomach troubles, or digestive issues are often not so easily detectable. Babies with silent reflux can feel uncomfortable when lying down. When a baby is experiencing discomfort from gas or bloating, they may also wake up crying. If you suspect any of these conditions, it's important to consult with your doctor.

4. Light sleepers

While most babies are somehow light sleepers, there are some babies that are very receptive to outside noises when sleeping. Many light sleepers will wake up crying when transitioning from deep sleep to light sleep or from one sleep cycle to another. It seems that they are not even fully awake and don't respond to you.

5. Separation anxiety

As babies become more aware of their surroundings, they may experience separation anxiety and wake up crying for their parents. Separating anxiety can start as early as 4 months of age.

Related Article: Is Your Baby A Light Sleeper? 9 Solutions To Get Them To Sleep & Stay Asleep

2. When Do Babies Start Dreaming?

During the early stages of life, babies spend most of their sleep time in rapid eye movement (REM). Humans will spend more time in REM sleep as newborns than during any other time of their life.

This sleep stage, which is characterized by fast, random eye movements, is also associated with dreaming. However, the dreams of newborns and infants are thought to be simple and focused on sensory experiences, such as smells, sounds, and images from their environment.

As babies grow and develop, their dreams become more complex and similar to adult dreams, including storylines and emotions. This development of dreaming is closely related to the development of the brain and cognitive abilities. Baby's abilities in cognitive functions like decision-making, negotiating, testing a parent, or emotional regulation also increase with age, which all can lead to having dreams.

Research on the dreams of toddlers is also limited. However, it is believed that toddlers have similar dream content and complexity as adults, but with some differences.

Toddlers are at a stage of development where they are starting to understand the world around them and are beginning to form memories, so their dreams are likely to be influenced by their experiences and emotions. Toddlers' dreams may include familiar people, places, and objects from their daily lives, and they may also dream about events that have recently happened or those they have heard or seen.

Toddlers may also dream about the things that they are currently learning about and experiencing, such as animals, numbers, colors, and shapes. They may also dream about their emotions, such as fear, happiness, and frustration.

Related Article: How To Survive The 4 Month Sleep Regression With An Actual SMILE

3. What Science Says About Babies And Dreams

There has been quite a debate about whether babies dream or not, so it should be mentioned that there's no definitive research that confirms or denies that babies can have dreams.

Researchers found that the majority of their sleep is spent in the REM stage, which is the stage associated with dreaming. Another study found that infants as young as 6 months old have dream-like patterns of brain activity during sleep, similar to those seen in adults.

David Foulkes, one of the world's leading experts on pediatric dreaming, wrote that "if an organism gives evidence that it can perceive a reality, then we are prone to imagine that it can dream one as well."

Other neuroscientists believe that the REM-sleep newborns and babies are experiencing has a different role than in adults. It is less for dreaming but more to build new pathways in their brain.

It's important to note that research is still ongoing, and much is still unknown about the content and nature of babies' dreams. The studies that have been conducted are based on assumptions and theories.

4. Can Babies Have Nightmares?

Since it cannot be fully confirmed that babies don't dream, it is possible that babies can have nightmares.

However, it is less common than in older children and adults. The content and complexity of nightmares in babies are thought to be simpler than in older children or adults, as babies have not yet developed the cognitive and emotional abilities to understand and process the events that happen in their dreams.

At the age of 1, babies develop what is called the "character of the self". This means that they start to realize that they are their own little person, separate from their caretaker. And as babies reach the age of 2, they often start to develop their first fears. It is quite possible that these huge milestones play a role in their dreams.

It's important to note that nightmares in babies are still relatively rare, and most crying episodes during sleep are caused by other factors.

5. What To Do If Your Baby Has A Nightmare

It is tough for a parent to see their baby in distress, fearing they had a nightmare. But you are their safe place, and even when they don't stop crying, immediately remember that with only your presence, you are immensely helping them.

Here are a few things you can do to help your baby feel better:

• Comfort your baby by holding them and talking to them in a soothing tone.
• Reassure your baby that they are safe and that you are there to protect them.
• Help your baby relax by singing a lullaby or reading a story.
• Offer your baby a pacifier or water.
• Try to create a calm and peaceful environment in your baby's room by keeping the lights dim and the noise level low.
• You can try to distract your baby by giving them a toy or a favorite blanket to hold.
• Stay with your child as long as they need you.

Related Article: A Toddler Bedtime Routine That Will Make Your Toddler Stop Fighting Sleep

6. Babies And Night Terrors

If your baby wakes in the middle of the night and is completely unconsolable, doesn't react to your attempts to comfort them, or their crying even gets worse, then you might deal with night terrors.

Night terrors are relatively uncommon in babies younger than 18 months but can still occur in younger babies.

1. What are night terrors?

A Night terror, also known as confusional arousal, is a sleep disorder that can occur in babies, children, and adults. These episodes usually occur within the first few hours after falling asleep and can last from a few minutes to several hours.

During a night terror, a baby may appear to be awake and alert, but they are not fully conscious and are often difficult to rouse. They may also have difficulty recognizing familiar people or surroundings and may be confused, disoriented, or agitated. They may have a blank stare, be sweating, have a fast heart rate and breathing, or even have a temporary sleep-walking episode.

2. What is the difference between a bad dream and night terrors?

Dreaming always happens in REM sleep, while night terrors occur during the transition from deep sleep to rem sleep. When your baby wakes from a scary dream, they are fully conscious and up. A baby that is having a night terror is, however, still sleeping, even when their eyes are open!

3. What causes night terrors?

Night terrors are not caused by nightmares or bad dreams, and the person usually has no memory of the episode once they fully wake up. In babies, the main cause of night terrors is believed to be overstimulation.

Your baby may also be more susceptible to night terrors if night terrors run in your family (former sleepwalker talking).

Other factors that can contribute to night terrors are stress, overtiredness, sickness, separation anxiety, major life changes, or a changed sleeping environment.

In some cases, night terrors may be caused by an underlying medical condition, such as a sleep disorder, and it's always a good idea to consult a pediatrician if the baby is experiencing frequent or severe episodes of night terrors. A pediatrician will be able to rule out any underlying medical conditions and help provide strategies for managing night terrors.

It is also worth mentioning that night terrors usually only occur once a night. So if your baby wakes up crying several times a night, chances are you are not dealing with nightmares or night terrors.

4. What you can do about night terrors

Even though night terrors are very scary, they are not dangerous! It is important that you stay calm and don't freak out. While there are no scientifically proven remedies to prevent night terrors, there are still some things you can try to minimize the risk of night terrors.

1. Reduce stress: Reduce stress in your family, avoid talking too loud noises (by that, I mean arguing, but I am trying to wrap it up nicely), and keep away from too big family gatherings.

2. Avoid overtiredness: For little babies, overtiredness can still be a big thing. Try to get your baby to sleep before they show any signs of being overtired.

3. Fill their emotional cup: Have a lot of one-on-one time during the day. Fill your bedtime routine with a lot of cuddles to fill their emotional cup.

4. Use white noise: Night terrors can occur if your baby wakes during their deep sleep. Use white noise to mask any unwanted sounds from traffic or other family members.

5. Don't wake your baby: During a night terror, you should not wake your baby. It can leave your baby more disoriented, scared, and confused. Just comfort them with your presence.

As your baby grows, their nervous system continues to develop, and their sleep patterns will change. Night terrors are most common in preschool years (3-4 years) but sometimes still occur in young children until the age of 12. However, night terrors usually also go away on their own.

7. Conclusion

While nightmares and night terrors can be stressful and also frightening for parents, remember that bad dreams have nothing to do with you. It is not an indicator of whether your child is happy or not. They are simply processing so much information at such an incredible pace that a nightmare is sometimes the result. Just be there for your little one and provide the comfort they need.

One of the most frustrating experiences as a parent is trying to get your baby to fall asleep when they seem to be fighting it every single step of the way. Most of the time, we assume overtiredness. But sometimes, the opposite is true. Let's learn about undertiredness and how it can play a huge role in your baby's sleep.

Overtired babies are SCARY. There is no denying it. But sometimes you will get the feeling whatever you are looking for: the answer is an overtired baby. It seems to be the evil root of all baby sleep problems.

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But there is one thing we don't pay enough attention to, and that is undertiredness. Undertiredness is not talked about a lot in the baby sleep community.

So in this article, we will dig a little bit deeper into the subject of undertiredness and how it can affect baby sleep.

Don't Underestimate Undertiredness

Undertiredness in babies is often underrated because it is not as well-known or understood as overtiredness. When a baby is overtired, they may exhibit clear signs such as irritability and difficulty falling asleep. They show late tired signs and become fussy or cry.

On the other hand, an undertired baby may not show as many signs of being, and it can be more challenging for parents to spot.

As a result, parents focus more on avoiding overtiredness and may not consider the possibility of their baby being undertired.

But undertiredness can play a big role in your baby's sleep. Especially when they get older. As your little one approaches toddlerhood, undertiredness becomes one of the main causes of sleep problems.

Undertiredness is definitely a thing in older babies and toddlers!

Related Article: Baby Sleepy Cues - The Secret To Recognizing A Tired Baby

Common Sleep Problems Associated With Undertiredness

Here are some common sleep problems that may be associated with undertiredness in babies:

Frequent wakings: Night sleep will get increasingly interrupted. An undertired baby may wake more frequently because they are not getting enough deep sleep to make it through the night without waking. Sleep pressure is not high enough, so whenever they enter light sleep, or their sleep cycle ends, they wake.

Short naps: If your baby is not tired enough, they may only have a short nap. Short naps are especially a thing for young babies. Sleep pressure is not high enough, and an undertired baby may not sleep as long as you want them to.

Split nights: Besides night wakings, undertiredness can have other not very pleasant effects on nighttime sleep. For example, your baby wakes in the middle of the night and is ready to play. They stay up all happy and smiles for hours while you can barely keep one eye half open.

False starts: False starts are another common sleep problem resulting from an undertired baby. You then deal with a baby waking shortly after bedtime. In many cases, they think they had a nap! The audacity…

Fighting naps and bedtime: You will experience nap and bedtime battles, especially with older babies and toddlers. Life has just become super interesting, and when they are not tired, there is no way they are just simply giving in to sleep.

Related Article: Newborn Sleep Cues Vs. Hunger Cues - Here Is How To Figure It Out

Typical Signs of an Undertired Baby

Difficulty falling asleep: An undertired baby will have trouble falling asleep because they are simply not tired enough to fall asleep. It can take up to an hour to get an overtired baby to sleep.

Happy in the beginning, frustrated in the end: Settling an undertired baby usually starts out well. They are happy and brabble, stand up or sit up. But they will start to get frustrated the longer it takes for them to fall asleep.

They barely show tired signs: Undertired babies show barely tired signs. They maybe scratch their head or pull their ears once and bother parents are on spot with diaper and pajamas, ready to start the bedtime routine.

They need excessive help to fall asleep: Rocking, nursing, shushing, jumping on the yoga ball. You have tried EVERYTHING, just name it. Undertired babies need a lot of help to fall asleep.

They stall bedtime: Toddlers are the experts on stalling bedtime. There is not one idea they will miss. They are hungry, thirsty, need to pee, or have something important to tell you that they still need to come up with.

How to Avoid Undertiredness in Babies and Toddlers

Check your wake windows: An age-appropriate awake time between naps is important to prevent undertiredness. A sleep schedule and wake windows are very helpful for younger babies. If you have a toddler, a sleep schedule is less relevant. Instead, watch for sleepy signs.

Avoid Too much daytime sleep: No one wants to wake their baby from a nap. But sometimes, it is just necessary for the greater good. Make sure your little one does not sleep too much during the day. Otherwise, they will compensate for nighttime sleep with daytime naps. In the worst case, their sleep pattern will shift, and you will end up with constant early morning wakes.

Have one long last wake window: Once your baby drops the afternoon nap, the last awake window becomes the most important one. Make sure it is the longest of the day and have bedtime according to it.

Learn about your baby's individual sleep needs: While there are general guidelines on how much sleep babies need at different ages, sleep needs still differ from baby to baby. There are also low-sleep need babies that need much less sleep than the nor and are still totally fine. Observe your baby's sleeping behavior and write down how many hours they sleep at night to determine their overall sleep needs in 24 hours.

Related Article: Low Sleep Needs Babies & Toddlers - How Much Sleep Your Child Really Needs

Accept & respect your baby's cues: You cannot force tiredness. A baby that is not tired will not sleep just like you wouldn't. I love a sleep schedule, but it is supposed to be a guide and not the bible. Your child is not exposed to the same amount of stimulation every day. Don't stress too much about the clock. Your baby doesn't have to be sleeping at 8 PM sharp. Trust their body to show you when they are truly tired.

Related Article: How To Survive The 4 Month Sleep Regression With An Actual SMILE

Tips for Settling an Undertired Baby

The 20-minute rule: If you cannot get your baby to sleep within 20-30 minutes, stop the whole process. It will just stress you out. You can try again in 15-20 minutes.

Create a sleep-inducing environment: The right environment will help your baby settle more easily to sleep. Use white noise to mask all outside noises and black-out curtains to keep it dark.

Create positive sleep associations: When nap time and bedtime have become a battle for some time, children will automatically resist sleeping because they have created negative associations with it. Revert their feelings about bedtime by making your bedtime routine a playful experience. Include a lot of cuddles and play. Dedicate your whole attention and time to the process, so it becomes something they really enjoy doing with you.

Conclusion

It is important for parents to pay attention to their baby's sleep patterns and behavior and to take the right steps to ensure that their little one is getting enough rest. But being mindful of your baby's individual sleep needs is part of that.
Overtiredness may be famous, but undertiredness is an equally strong opponent that will keep you and your baby awake.