fbpx

How to break free from the short nap- short awake time cycle with your baby

How to break free from the short nap- short awake time cycle with your baby

It’s a common challenge faced by many parents: the never-ending cycle of short naps and brief awake periods. Just when it feels like you’ve settled your baby for a nap, they’re awake again, not fully refreshed, and the cycle continues. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many parents struggle with this pattern, but there are strategies to help break free from it.

 

Recognizing the Cycle

Babies often have short naps because they don’t have enough sleep pressure built up during their awake time. This means they get tired again quickly, but aren’t rested enough from their previous nap, creating a vicious cycle. Here’s what you can do to help your little one stretch their awake time, so they (and you) can enjoy longer naps.

For Babies Over 6 Months Old

If your baby is past the six-month mark, you have some great options to try:

  1. Snack Time: Offering a small snack can be a game-changer. If your baby can have solids, try providing a snack to boost their energy levels. Perhaps a small amount of fruit or a few bites of a favorite meal can give them just enough energy to stay awake longer.

  2. Distractions: Sometimes all it takes is a little distraction to keep your baby engaged. Activities like playing with a new toy or interacting with water can help. Avoid activities that might encourage sleep, like a walk. Instead, let them play in the water or with kitchen pots to extend their awake period by 15 to 30 minutes.

For Babies Under 6 Months Old

The trick to stretching awake time in younger babies lies in how feeding is managed:

  1. Minimal Stimulation: Try feeding in a bright environment while talking to your baby. Avoid feeding in a dark room where they may associate it with sleep.

  2. Diaper Change: A diaper change before feeding can help wake your baby up just enough to gain a little more energy from their feed without nodding off. Even though it’s tricky, stretching that awake window by just 15 minutes can significantly impact your baby’s nap length.

The Path to Longer Naps

Patience is the key. These techniques might take a few days of consistent application to see results. If your baby shows signs of overwhelming tiredness, it’s perfectly okay to let them nap and try again next time. Honor your baby’s needs and adjust accordingly.

Remember, every baby is unique. Some might take to these adjustments quicker than others. The important thing is to keep trying and to understand that change takes time. As you help your baby lengthen their awake periods, you’ll likely notice improvements in their naps and overall mood.

If you have questions about these strategies or want to share your own tips for extending awake time, feel free to leave a comment. We’re all in this parenting adventure together, and sharing helps everyone improve our little ones’ sleep patterns.

 

If you need more support

I lead a team of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners around the globe, who share my programs and who I personally mentor.

If you are struggling with your baby or child, you can reach out and we can help. We do in person and virtual feeding assessments. We also offer women’s health services and can help you achieve optimal hormonal health. Our services are often covered through insurance.

You can find the nurse closest to you here. If you need more help you can reach out to [email protected].

Thank you so much for being a part of our community,

Carrie Bruno RN, IBCLC, MSCP

SHARE THIS POST

Need Support?

Find Us Elsewhere

The Mama Coach- Content Campaign-18

About Us

The Mama Coach is a global team of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners.

Our mission is to guide families through every stage of their parenting journey by providing evidence-informed education infused with non-judgmental support, compassion, and empathy.