We have all seen it, the yawns, eye rubs, and fussiness that all screams it is time for your little one to catch up on some Zs. Nothing tests a parent’s patience more than when you know your baby needs sleep, but they just won’t let it happen. So, why do babies fight sleep even when you know they need it? And even better—what are some tips to help encourage healthy sleep habits for your little one?
Why Your Baby Might Be Fighting Sleep
Wouldn’t it be nice if they could just tell you why they won’t sleep? Unfortunately, you have to play the guessing game with babies. But here are some common reasons your little one might be resisting snoozing.
They’re Experiencing Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety can be common. This usually happens when your baby is a little older and out of the newborn stage, typically around 9 months. You might find your baby fighting sleep so that you don’t leave.
They Are Overly Tired
It sounds counterintuitive, but sometimes your baby can’t sleep because they are too exhausted to calm down enough. Babies often have a window of time where they can easily drift off, and getting them ready for sleep is challenging if missed.
They Are Overstimulated
You must keep screens away from your baby before they sleep, as these can overstimulate them. But it’s also essential to keep loud noises and bright lights to a minimum to avoid overstimulating your baby before bedtime.
They Aren’t Tired Enough
On the contrary to being overlytired, your baby might not be tired enough. This is usually on a case-by-case basis resulting from things like an extra-long nap during the day.
How You Can Help Encourage Healthy Sleep Habits
The good news is there are things you can do to encourage healthy sleep habits and get your little one off their sleep hiatus. Here are a couple of ideas to get you started.
Set a Sleep Routine and Stick to It
A steady sleep routine can do wonders for keeping your baby on track. Whether you curl up with one of your swaddling muslins for a story before bed or sing a lullaby, the more consistent you are with this routine, the easier it will be for your baby to recognize its time to sleep.
Keep Your Baby in Their Crib
Your baby’s crib must be their designated place to sleep, no matter how comfortable it might feel to bring them into your bed. While you can use the natural swaddling method with a muslin blanket to promote safe sleep, it’s important to lay your little one down in their crib without any loose items. Again, this routine of going in the crib can help your baby recognize their own sleep pattern.
Make Sure Your Baby Is Fed Before Sleep
Avoid the fussiness of a hungry baby and reduce the risk of them waking up before they’ve had enough sleep because of hunger. Make sure you feed your little one before it’s time for a nap to help reduce this hiccup in their sleep schedule.
About Little Unicorn
Each moment you spend with your little ones is a cherished and precious moment. Little Unicorn creates the highest quality baby supplies so you can focus on what’s really important: savoring all of the small moments while your babies are still small. Between their sizable selection of muslin blankets, large burp cloths, carseat canopy options, and customizable diaper bags, Little Unicorn has everything you need to welcome your little one home and help them flourish. Featuring hand-painted designs and soft cotton muslin, swaddle blankets from Little Unicorn turn heads at any baby shower. Little Unicorn products are tested multiple times to meet international safety standards so you can rest easy as a parent. All those unforgettable, messy, and beautiful moments await you with products from Little Unicorn by your family’s side.
Find the perfect muslins for your baby’s bedtime at https://littleunicorn.com/
Original Source: https://bit.ly/3XQ3Bm5
