Good rest is very important to babies and caregivers alike. While the number one recommendation for new parents is to get enough rest, the number one thing new parents have trouble with is exactly that. Balancing the need for rest with the needs of a baby can seem like an impossible juggling act. This blog is focused on helping you get the rest you need by diving deeper into why your LO might be regularly waking at night.
Hunger
Babies have small stomachs and may need to feed frequently, especially if they are going through a growth spurt. Babies grow an average of a half an inch to an inch a month for the first year. That is a lot of growing pains and discomfort that can cause waking. Make sure your LO gets enough food during the day and the need for night feeding will reduce.
Sleep Associations
Your baby may have developed associations between falling asleep with certain conditions (like being rocked or using a pacifier or breast to soothe) and may struggle to settle back to sleep without them. White noise can help replace the sound of sucking that comforts babies.
Discomfort
Your baby may be uncomfortable due to factors like teething, a wet diaper, being too hot or cold, or an illness. A good quality sleep sack can help with much of this and provide the temperature control needed for longer sleep.
Developmental Milestones
Babies often wake more frequently during developmental leaps, as their brains are processing new skills and experiences. Developmental leaps are important but can be hard on caregivers who are lacking sleep. It may seem like an eternity but you can get back on track in a couple of days! To combat this, make sure baby has plenty of time to practice newly learned skills during the day.
Inconsistent Sleep Routine
A lack of a consistent bedtime routine or schedule can lead to frequent night waking. Consistency and structured sleep time is incredibly important to good development and rest. Make a good routine and stick to it, you and your little one will be much better off because of it.
Take Care of You
Remember, as a caregiver you need to take care of yourself as well. If you are getting enough sleep, you will be better able to fulfill your new responsibilities of taking care of your baby. Studies show that caregivers who get enough rest are more patient and more likely to feel good about parenting. Engage your support community to help take shifts so that you are able to sleep and be the best parent that you can be. We are here to help! Give us a call and let’s talk about how we can help support you and your family’s sleep.
Conclusion
It’s essential to observe your baby’s cues, establish a soothing bedtime routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and consult with a healthcare provider if frequent waking persists or if you have concerns about your baby’s sleep patterns. While everyone has an opinion, you need a solution that will work for you and takes your family’s needs into account. Our talented team at The Early Weeks is committed to help guide you through this journey. We will meet you where you are at and guide you to where you want to be. Our practice operates on a foundation of providing balance to the family and restoring or facilitating sleep for everyone, not just the baby! If you are currently struggling with your little one, please don’t lose hope. Contact us now. We’ll get to the root of your challenges and help your family get the sleep it desperately needs.
About The Author: 💤Katie Bishop | The Early Weeks 💤
✅ Certified Master Pediatric Sleep Consultant
✅ Board Certified Holistic Healthcare Practitioner
✅ Advanced Newborn Care Specialist
