Are Some Kids Just Bad? Tips for Better Naps – Mom on Call

When babies wake up more often than expected at bedtime, we naturally feel like we want to help them get back to sleep. Often, our first instinct is to pick them up and try to reset them.

However, sometimes carrying them can make them more alert. And we understand, a few minutes spent trying to help your baby fall asleep can feel like a lifetime! Most of the time, they just need a little space and time to go back to sleep on their own. Let’s take a look at what sleep looks like and how you can create a safe, consistent environment that supports your child every day.

Tips for Better, Consistent Sleep

• Natural light is good during sleep.

• Not all sound systems are created equal.

  • We recommend the LectroFan Classic.

  • Place the sound system on a dresser or side table, about 12 inches from the head of the bed, and turn it up loud.

• Remember comfort and mobility.

  • Babies don’t have to wear pajamas that go to bed, but their clothes should allow them to move freely.

  • After three months, the child is grown.

  • Over three months, we don’t recommend sleeping bags, as they can sometimes make the swings more difficult and cause discomfort.

• Before bedtime, give your child a chance to feel calm and relaxed.

  • Our little ones are growing and reaching new milestones every day!

  • For a five-month-old, this may include tummy time, playing on the floor, petting, walking or rolling over.

• Lay your baby down while he is awake.

• Have realistic expectations.

  • Usually, it takes your baby 10-15 minutes to fall asleep.

  • They can sleep for 30-45 minutes, wake up, argue or cry, then fall asleep after 10-20 minutes.

  • He will also sleep for 20-30 minutes.

  • After three months, we can give them the opportunity to find their own comfort zone and sleep on their own.

• Provide regular bedtimes.

No sleep is perfect, and that’s okay! The reality is that, at this age, your child can have one long, successful, and one less successful period every day. Some days, falling asleep may come easily and feel good, while other days may involve short periods of sleep, intense tension or restlessness. This does not mean that you are doing anything wrong or that what you are doing is not going well. Continue to offer regular naps and remember that every nap does not have to look the same to be beneficial.

Need More Help With Short Naps?

It’s everything Mothers on Call consultation, we have one goal in mind: to give you the practical advice and confidence you need to support your child’s special needs.

Our Certified Counselors are licensed pediatric nurses who are specially trained in the Moms on Call philosophy, and use Moms on Call in their own homes.

They can help you understand what will help you sleep less, create a more consistent sleeping environment and give you personalized guidance for your child’s age and stage.

Little sleep can be frustrating, but it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong or that your baby is just a “sleeper.” By creating a comfortable and safe sleeping environment, providing regular bedtimes and giving your child a chance to settle down, you are creating healthy habits that can be reinforced over time. Some sleeps will go better than others, and that’s okay. Be consistent, keep your expectations realistic and remember that progress, not perfection, is the goal.