Just like adults, newborn babies get tired, and when they do, it’s important to help them get the rest they need. But what if you have an overtired baby who won’t sleep? Knowing how to help your little one settle down and find some much-needed rest can be difficult. Herein We’ll provide a few tips for getting your overtired baby.
Signs of an Overtired Baby
How do you know that your baby is overtired? Well, these beautiful beings can’t express themselves in words, so it can be hard to tell. But there are some signs you’ll want to watch out for that could indicate your baby is overly tired:
• Fussiness
• Irritability or crankiness
• Increased overtired baby’s cry sound
• A difficulty settling down for nighttime sleep
• Waking too early from a nap
Read more: How To Get Your Baby To Sleep Without Nursing
How To Get An Overtired Baby To Sleep
If you notice any of the above signs, here are some tips to help get your overtired baby back on track and sleeping peacefully:
Make Sure Your Baby is Comfortable
Make sure your baby’s room is at a comfortable temperature, dark enough for sleeping, and the bedding or clothing your child is wearing is not too tight or restrictive. If possible, ensure that no distractions, such as bright lights or noise, might keep him from falling asleep.
Provide Comfort
Providing comfort is essential for parents trying to help get their tired baby to sleep. It may require some trial and error, but responding quickly, warmly, and reassuringly when your baby becomes fussy is important. Soft music or white noise, rocking them in a gentle sway, swaddling with a light blanket, massaging their head or back – all these measures can work together to soothe your little one. And, of course, don’t forget the power of touch. A gentle hug or caress can truly make all the difference!
Try White Noise
White noise can be an unexpected lifesaver to soothe an overtired baby. White noise is calming and relaxing and effective in blocking out other noises that could be distracting the baby from falling asleep.
White noise can consist of popular tools like sound machines and Apps or simply using a fan or listening to static sounds through a radio or speaker. Whatever your preference for white noise, it can play a crucial role in helping an overtired baby relax, fall asleep more quickly, and sleep for longer periods.
Limit Stimulation Before Bedtime
Opt for low-key stimulation before bedtime to help an overtired baby relax and drift off to sleep. This means doing away with any games or toys that could overstimulate them and dimming the lights. Many parents swear by warm baths and cuddles as a soothing deluxe before bedtime, though this should be tailored to what works best for your child.
Limiting stimulation helps set the scene for a peaceful night’s sleep – the goal is to move from an excited state of mind to a calm one so that your little one can enjoy a good rest.
Read more: How To Get A Sick Baby To Sleep
Follow a Bedtime Sleep Routine
A consistent bedtime routine leads to healthy sleep habits which are essential for getting a baby who is overtired to sleep. It helps set their body clock and makes them familiar with signals that it’s time to go to bed. An ideal bedtime routine should include relaxing activities, such as a warm bath, stories or songs, and some snuggles before being tucked in for the night.
It is wise to have sleep training for your baby. Establishing a calming atmosphere and having them end the night looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures with an affirmed sense of comfort can help get overtired babies tend to sleep more quickly.
Swaddle Your Baby
Overtired babies sleep very lightly. Swaddling your baby can be incredibly effective in calming an overtired baby and helping them get the sleep they need. Swaddling mimics the tight spaces of a womb, creating a feeling of safety and comfort that can often lead to improved sleep.
If you haven’t yet stumbled upon this wonderful practice, start by getting some safe swaddle wrapping material and loosely wrap it around your baby’s arms and body. This will help keep them snugly in place, providing enough resistance to feel relaxed. Adjust to ensure the swaddle is properly fitted for the best outcome – not too tight or loose.
Hold Baby On Her Stomach or Side
The “tummy-to-play” or side-lying position is a great way to help an overtired baby sleep. This position helps babies feel more secure and relaxed, as the snugness of being close to your body can be quite soothing. In the tummy-to-play position, you will hold your baby on their stomach while they play with toys or relax in your arms.
Alternatively, if your little one seems uncomfortable in this position, you can settle them into the side-lying pose, where they rest comfortably on their side next to you. Both positions offer a peaceful space for an overtired baby to calm down and drift into dreamland.
Consult With Your Pediatrician
It’s important to check in with your pediatrician if your baby is consistently over-tired and having trouble sleeping. Your doctor can help guide you on the best methods for getting enough sleep and will get to know your child to provide the best specific advice tailored to their age and needs.
Because every baby is different, working with a medical expert can help determine if any outside influences contribute to your little one’s difficulty sleeping, such as an allergic reaction or digestive issue. Keeping an open dialogue with your pediatrician can ensure that everyone involved is always up-to-date on potential solutions for getting a better night’s rest.
Read more: How To Help A Teething Baby Sleep
Wrapping Up
An overtired baby cries a lot and it can be difficult to soothe, and getting them the sleep they need is essential for their overall well-being. Taking a few steps to reduce stimulation before bedtime, sticking to a consistent routine, swaddling your baby, and holding them in the tummy-to-play or side-lying position can help get an overtired baby to sleep. If your little one continues to experience difficulty sleeping, consider consulting with your pediatrician for additional guidance to ensure that everyone involved gets a good night’s rest.
