Night wakings are a common challenge for parents of babies and toddlers. While some wake-ups are inevitable, how you respond can shape your child’s sleep habits in the long term.
Here are five things you should avoid when your little one wakes during the night:
1. Don’t Rush In Immediately
It’s natural to want to comfort your child as soon as you hear them cry, but rushing in too quickly can prevent them from learning how to settle down and fall asleep independently.
Babies and toddlers often make noises and cry out while they transition between sleep cycles, but that doesn’t always mean you have to go in.
Pause for a moment to observe and listen.
If your child’s cry starts to escalate, then that is when you might need to go in.
If they start to settle down, they will probably fall back to sleep on their own.
2. Don’t Rely on Feeding to Fall Back to Sleep or Soothe
For younger babies, nighttime feedings are sometimes necessary. However, if your child has your doctor’s OK and is developmentally ready to sleep through the night without eating, offering a bottle or breast every time they wake can create a wake to feed association.
Try soothing them with other methods, such as gentle back rubs or shushing, to help them return to sleep.
Be mindful of schedule changes and sleep needs as your baby grows.
Night wakings or early morning wakings are a result of being overtired or under tired, not always hunger.
3. Don’t Get Into Bed with your Toddler
When your toddler wakes during the night, it can be tempting to lie down with them to get them back to sleep. While this might work in the short term, it can lead to sleep associations that require you to be in the room/bed every time they wake.
Immediately return your child to THEIR bed if they get out of bed.
Consistency is key; if your goal is for your child to sleep independently, provide comfort and connection in ways that align with that goal.
4. Don’t Turn On Bright Lights or Engage Too Much
Turning on overhead lights or engaging in stimulating activities during a night waking sends a confusing signal to your child. Bright lights and active interactions can disrupt their natural sleep cycle, making it harder for them to fall back asleep.
Keep the room dimly lit and interactions minimal.
Use a soft voice and calm demeanor to encourage them to fall back to sleep.
5. Don’t Get Frustrated or Lose Patience
Dealing with night wakings can be exhausting, but showing frustration can escalate the situation. Babies and toddlers are incredibly perceptive and may pick up on your emotions, which can make them feel more unsettled.
Take a deep breath, compose yourself, and approach the situation calmly.
Consistency and a soothing presence will pay off in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Night wakings are an inevitable part of parenting, but how you handle them can make a big difference. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll help your baby or toddler develop healthy sleep habits and routines.
There are many benefits to teaching our children good sleep habits and how to fall asleep on their own. Since there are so many sleep cycles we go through, it is important to teach babies from a young age to learn how to cycle through without fully waking and calling for mommy or daddy. Remember, every child is different, and finding the right approach may take time. Stay consistent, stay calm, and remember that a good night’s sleep is at the end of the tunnel.
If you need more support, schedule a free 15 minute call to discuss your child’s sleep and behavior challenges.
Sweet Dreams! 😴👶
Comments