A baby that hardly sleeps is never easy for parents, especially since there is no way for them to know why this is happening. Over exhaustion, for babies and parents, plus being new to having a child can create anxiety when it comes to babies who do not sleep well. It can leave many parents feeling as though they are not able to cope.
Having children, whether it is your first or last, comes with a learning curve, and the best place to start is first to eliminate why the child is not sleeping.
The most common reasons and possible solutions as to why a baby may not be sleeping are:
- Babies have small stomachs and must eat frequently, especially during the early months. If a baby is waking up frequently and showing signs of hunger, they may need to be fed more often or have larger feeds before bedtime to reduce the likelihood of hunger interrupting their sleep.
- When a baby is uncomfortable due to reasons such as a wet or soiled diaper, feeling too hot or cold, or being in an uncomfortable sleeping position this can affect their sleep, and should be addressed before falling asleep. Decongestion can also create discomfort and keep a baby up and miserable. Dropping Karvol onto a baby’s pillow at night will help with the decongestion and allow them to have a better night’s sleep.
- Babies can develop associations between certain actions or objects and fall asleep, such as being rocked or using a pacifier. If they wake up during the night and these associations are not present, they may have trouble falling back asleep. You can try reducing their dependency on these items by slowly withdrawing them once your baby is drowsy but awake, helping them to learn that they can fall asleep without assistance.
- Before bedtime, try to limit the amount of stimulation your baby experiences. Babies can become overstimulated by their surroundings, which can make it difficult for them to settle down and sleep. Creating a calming bedtime routine in a soothing environment can help the baby relax. This can include a warm bath, a lullaby, and a story. A warm, dimly lit room is the perfect setting for a baby.
- It is important to know that babies often go through sleep regressions, which are temporary periods when their sleep patterns are disrupted. These regressions can occur around developmental milestones, teething, or changes in routine. Patience and consistent bedtime routines can help them adjust during these phases.
- If a baby is unwell or experiencing discomfort due to teething, colic, or other health issues, it can disrupt their sleep patterns. Consulting with a pediatrician can help determine if there’s an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
The challenges of a baby not sleeping at night can take its toll on the parents, leaving them feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. It is essential to remember that this phase is temporary and part of a child’s natural development.
By understanding the different factors that can disrupt a baby’s sleep and by finding ways to overcome them, parents can create a nurturing environment that promotes better sleep habits over time. Remember, every baby is unique, and finding the right solutions may take time, but it can be achieved with dedication.
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