Is Your Child Waking Up Too Early?

Why Your Little One is an Early Bird (and How to Encourage Later Rises)

Is your child consistently up before the crack of dawn? While it might feel like a never-ending cycle of early mornings, there's a common culprit behind this: overtiredness. Believe it or not, the most frequent reason for early wake-ups in babies and young children is actually a lack of sufficient sleep.

When a child is overtired, their body releases an excess of cortisol, a stress hormone. This surge can leave them feeling wired and overstimulated, making it difficult to relax and fall asleep. Consequently, they'll struggle to get the deep, restorative sleep they need, leading to even earlier wake-ups the next day.

To help your little one sleep in a bit longer, here are a few tips:

Optimize Bedtime

• Stick to a consistent sleep schedule: Children thrive on routine. Establishing a regular bedtime and wake-up time can help regulate their internal clock.

• Avoid late nights: Going to bed too late can lead to overtiredness, making it harder for your child to fall asleep and stay asleep.

• Prioritize quality sleep: Ensure your child's sleep environment is dark, quiet, and cool for optimal sleep conditions.

Naps Matter

• Nap appropriately: Naps are crucial for babies and younger children. Make sure your child is napping at age-appropriate times and for age-appropriate durations.

• Balance nap and bedtime: The gap between the last nap of the day and bedtime should be age-appropriate to prevent overtiredness.

Wind Down Routine

• Create a calming bedtime routine: Incorporate relaxing activities like bath time, reading, or soft music to signal to your child that it's time to wind down.

• Tired, but awake: Aim to put your child to bed when they're tired, but still awake. This helps them learn to fall asleep independently.

By addressing these factors and creating a consistent sleep routine, you can help your child get the rest they need and enjoy more peaceful mornings. Remember, it may take some time to see improvements, so be patient and persistent. With consistent effort, you'll be well on your way to a happier, more rested household.

And remember, as a Certified Gentle Sleep Coach I am always here to help on your family's sleep journey! Want to learn more? Book your 30 minute Sweet Dreams Starter Call today!

Yours in sleep,

Tracie / Rest Well Baby

Tracie Kesatie is a Certified Gentle Sleep Coach dedicated to helping families with little ones 0-10 years of age achieve a restful night's sleep.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your pediatrician for any concerns about your child's health.