How to Dress Your Baby for Sleep Safely and Comfortably

How to Dress Your Baby for Sleep Safely and Comfortably

by | Jul 21, 2023 | baby feeding and sleep, Food and sleep

Dressing your baby for sleep is an important part of ensuring their comfort and safety. But with so many different factors to consider, it can be tough to know where to start. In this blog post, we will discuss the key things to keep in mind when dressing your baby for sleep, including the right fabrics, the right temperature, and the right fit. We will also provide a helpful chart of sleep clothes per temperatures, so you can easily find the right outfit for your little one. By following the tips in this blog post, you can help to ensure that your baby is dressed comfortably and safely for sleep. With a little care and attention, you can help your baby get a good night’s sleep.  
How to Dress Your Baby for Different Temperatures
The temperature of your baby’s room is one of the most important factors to consider when dressing them for sleep. In general, you should aim to keep the room between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius (61 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit). If the room is too cold, your baby may be at risk of hypothermia. On the other hand, if the room is too hot, your baby may be at risk of overheating. Overheating can lead to SIDS, so it is important to take precautions to avoid it.  

CHART OF SLEEP CLOTHES PER TEMPERATURES TO HELP YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT OUTFIT FOR YOUR BABY:

A chart showing the correct baby clothing to wear for different room temperatures.
Other Factors to Consider when dressing a baby for sleep
In addition to the temperature, there are a few other factors to consider when dressing your baby for sleep. These include:
  • Your baby’s age. Younger babies tend to be more sensitive to temperature changes, so you may need to dress them in more layers. As they get older, they will be able to regulate their temperature better.
  • Your baby’s activity level. If your baby is a very active sleeper, they may be more likely to get too hot. In this case, you may want to dress them in fewer layers.
  • Your baby’s skin type. If your baby has sensitive skin, you may want to choose fabrics that are gentle on their skin.
  • Sleep sack togs. Sleep sacks come in different tog ratings, which indicate how warm they are. Check with the sleep sack company for their tog recommendations.
 
Tips for Dressing Your Baby for Sleep
  • Choose loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen. This will help to keep your baby cool and comfortable.
  • Dress your baby in one more layer than you would wear at night. This will help to keep them warm, but not too hot.
  • Avoid hats and beanies, as these can restrict your baby’s breathing.
  • Consider using a sleep sack, which is a wearable blanket that can help to keep your baby warm without the risk of them getting tangled up in a blanket.
  • Check your baby’s temperature regularly to make sure they are not too hot or too cold.
A photo of a baby sleeping in a cot wearing a white babygrow.
  By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your baby is dressed comfortably and safely for sleep. With a little care and attention, you can help your baby get a good night’s sleep. For more information on safe sleep practices, please visit the Lullaby Trust website: https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk Lullaby Trust Safe Sleep Advice: The Lullaby Trust is a UK-based charity that provides information and support on safe sleep for babies. Their website has a wealth of information on the topic, including tips on how to dress your baby for sleep safely and comfortably. I hope this blog post helps you to dress your baby for sleep safely and comfortably. If you liked these tips and wanted to learn more about how to support your child to sleep at this age, my 5 star parent-rated, baby sleep guide for babies and children from 0 – 6+ years old available here.
HOLISTIC BABY SLEEP COACH
Tailored Sleep Plans with 1:1 support
Gentle Sleep Solution Guides for Instant Download

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4 Month Sleep Regression: Causes, Symptoms, and Tips for Helping Your Baby Sleep Better

4 Month Sleep Regression: Causes, Symptoms, and Tips for Helping Your Baby Sleep Better

by | Apr 12, 2023 | baby feeding and sleep, Food and sleep

As a Baby Sleep Coach, I understand that parents may feel like they are getting the hang of having a baby and navigating their sleep patterns, but you shouldn’t get too comfortable. Your child will go through many regressions in their sleep over the first few years of their life. Being prepared and not being blindsided when your good sleeper is suddenly a sleep avoider is the best way to tackle this sleep turmoil.
Mothers holding their baby in her arms while looking at each other.

What is 4 months sleep regression?

Your baby may have gone through their first sleep regression at around 8 weeks old, but now, only two months later, they may be going through it all over again. The 4-month sleep regression can be the most challenging one for parents because it is a significant milestone in your baby’s sleep development.

Sleep regressions are a significant topic when it comes to your baby’s sleep routine, especially during the first couple of years of their life. The 4-month sleep regression is a developmental stage that many babies go through, leading to disrupted sleep. At around 4 months of age, babies go through significant changes in their sleep cycles and begin to develop more adult-like sleep patterns. This can result in a disruption to their previously established sleep patterns, including more frequent night wakings, shorter naps, and difficulty settling to sleep.

During this stage, babies may also experience other developmental changes, such as increased motor skills, teething, or starting to roll over, which can also affect their sleep. The 4-month sleep regression can be challenging for both babies and parents, but it usually resolves on its own within a few weeks to a few months. Parents can help their babies through this stage by establishing consistent sleep routines, providing a comfortable sleep environment, and responding promptly to their baby’s needs.

What other ages will my child go through a sleep regression?

Babies may go through several sleep regressions throughout their first year of life, but there are five significant sleep regressions parents should be aware of, including:

  • 8 weeks
  • 4 months
  • 8-10 months
  • 12-15 months
  • 2 years

How long does the 4-month sleep regression last?

The 4-month sleep regression is a common developmental milestone that typically occurs around 3-4 months of age and can last for a few weeks to a few months. The duration of the 4-month sleep regression can vary from baby to baby, but on average, it can last between 2-6 weeks. During this time, your baby’s sleep patterns may be disrupted, and they may have more trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. This can be frustrating for both you and your baby, but it’s important to remember that this is a normal part of their development. If you’re concerned about your baby’s sleep patterns or have any questions, a sleep consultant can help you develop effective self-settling methods and create a comfortable sleep environment.

A mother holding her baby in her arms and gently rocking him to sleep.

How does a sleep regression affect your child’s sleep?

By your baby’s second sleep regression,  they are developing a way of sleeping that is more like that they will have for life.  This is them fluctuating between a light sleep and a much deeper sleep.  It’s also the stage where your baby starts needing you less which means you can encourage them to self soothe.  They need to learn this skill to help them settle between wake up periods and to help extend the time when they are asleep.

Top tips on how to survive 4 months sleep regression:

  • Stick to a consistent bedtime routine: Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help your baby learn when it’s time to sleep, making it easier to fall asleep during a sleep regression. Try to keep the routine simple and consistent every night, so your baby knows what to expect. This may include things like a bath, reading a book, singing a lullaby, and snuggling.
  • Try to establish a nap schedule: Naps can be especially important during a sleep regression, so try to establish a nap schedule that works for your baby. This may involve paying attention to your baby’s sleepy cues and creating a nap-time routine to signal that it’s time to rest.
  • Stick to a consistent wake-up time: Even if your baby has had a rough night of sleep, try to wake them up at the same time every morning. This will help regulate their body clock and make it easier for them to fall asleep at night. Make sure they having right amount of sleep in 24 hour, use this sleep chart.
  • Be patient: Remember that sleep regressions are a normal part of a baby’s development, and they will eventually pass. Try to be patient and focus on creating a calm, soothing environment for your baby. Offer extra cuddles, soothing music, or a pacifier.
  • Be flexible: Your baby’s sleep patterns may change frequently during a regression, so be prepared to adjust your routine as needed. Be willing to try different things to see what works best for your baby.
  • Don’t let your baby get overtired: Overtiredness can make it harder for your baby to fall asleep and stay asleep. Watch for signs of tiredness, like yawning, rubbing eyes, or fussiness, and try to get your baby to sleep before they get too tired.
  • Ask for help: Sleep regressions can be exhausting for parents, both physically and emotionally. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family, or a professional if you need it. Sometimes just having someone to talk to can make a big difference.
  • Take care of yourself: Remember to take care of yourself during a sleep regression. Get enough rest, eat healthy foods, and take breaks when you need them. Remember that taking care of yourself will help you better take care of your baby.
  • Stay calm and positive: Your baby may sense your frustration or stress, which can make it harder for them to sleep. Try to stay calm and positive, even if you’re feeling exhausted. Remember that sleep regressions are temporary, and things will eventually get better.
  • Keep the bedroom conducive to sleep: Make sure your baby’s bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Use blackout curtains to keep out light and white noise to mask any background noise that could disturb your baby’s sleep. More on bedroom set up here.
  • Be mindful of growth spurts: Sleep regressions often coincide with growth spurts, which can make your baby extra hungry and fussy. Be prepared to offer extra feedings and comfort during these times.
  • Encourage self-settling: your baby will be much more aware at this stage of when it is sleep time because of things that you may have put in place to help them. This means if you feed your baby to sleep, rock your baby to sleep or whatever routines you have, then they need to be done every single time because this is the only way your baby knows to get to sleep and it is why them learning to self settle  becomes super important at this stage. You need to change the sleep associations so you are less involved and it is where your bedtime routines come into play.

  • Consider exploring gentle sleep training options if your baby is having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep during the 4-month sleep regression. Gentle sleep training can help your baby learn to self-settle and establish healthy sleep habits. You can find a variety of downloadable sleep guides here to help guide you through the process. Additionally, if you would like more personalised support, you can reach out to a sleep consultant for 1-on-1 help habits.

A peacefully sleeping baby in a crib.

Can the sleep regression be something else?

There are a few other things that could be affecting your child’s sleep that you may want to eliminate before assuming it is a sleep regression.  

  • Teething When your baby is teething, they obviously experience some discomfort. You can look to see if any teeth are breaking through to see if it is this or watching if they are mouthing/chewing more.  Also, if teething is disrupting their sleep, it is usually only a couple of days so you can use these facts to decide whether teething is the cause.
  • Separation anxiety As baby gets older (from around 6 months) your baby becomes more away of when you aren’t there and they don’t like it.  This may make them harder to settle because they may be clingier.  They also might not like to be left to fall asleep by themselves. More on separation anxiety here. 
  • Illness If your child isn’t feeling themselves this could lead to many restless nights until they recover.
  • Growth spurts Your child is obviously doing lots of growing and if they are going through a spurt of growth, it might mean they need to take in extra feeds to provide the energy they need and therefore wake up more frequently.  They also happen more often than sleep regressions do and last for shorter lengths of time.  Because of the extra feeds they need, they might start developing the sleep association of being fed to sleep.
  • Nap transitions If your child is changing their nap patterns (dropping one, having them at different times, shortening them) they might have trouble sleeping as they adjust to their new routine! This might even cross over with times that some of the sleep regressions are due.

Frequently asked sleep regression questions

Will a sleep regression mean all our sleep training has gone out of the window?

No definitely not. There may be a few blips through the various sleep regressions but keeping your routines and sleep procedures consistent is the best thing you can do for your baby.

Will my child go through all of the sleep regressions?

They are all developments in your child that are signs of them growing up. Your child may or may not show signs of all sleep regressions, and it’s best not to panic before it even happens. It’s possible that it might not even be that bad. While it’s possible that your child may go through all the sleep regressions at some point, it’s important to note that they may affect some children more than others. Sometimes, you may not even realize that your child is going through a sleep regression until it has passed. Therefore, it’s essential to stay patient, provide comfort and support to your child, and work on developing healthy sleep habits and routines to help them navigate these phases successfully.

How long will sleep regression  last?

Each one is different.  Some are due to changes happening in your baby, whereas some are due to changes within their life such as changes to their routines.

When should my baby be able to learn to self-settle?

Around 4 months.  It is a great skill for your baby to learn (and you) because it helps them link sleep times together rather than waking up completely between each one.  It also should lead to less work from you.

Is there anything else I can do to help my baby sleep better?

Make sure you look after yourself.  If you have a support network, now might be the time to rope them in. Learn to prioritise jobs and don’t sweat if your house is a little messier than you are used to.  Other parents will know the feeling. With an older child you can look into foods that promote sleep and with any child you can make sure they get outside as much as possible, both to tire them out and to get lots of vitamin D which helps promote sleep as well.

 

Conclusion

Sleep regression is a normal developmental milestone that many babies go through around 4 months of age. It can be a challenging time for parents, but it is important to remember that it is temporary. There are a number of things you can do to help your baby through this sleep regression, such as sticking to a consistent bedtime routine, encouraging self-settling, and considering gentle sleep training options.

To summarise:

  • 4-month sleep regression is a normal developmental milestone.
  • Common symptoms include frequent night wakings, shorter naps, and difficulty falling asleep.
  • Tips for helping your baby through sleep regression include:
    • Stick to a consistent bedtime routine.
    • Encourage self-settling.
    • Consider gentle sleep training options.
  • Other things that could be affecting your child’s sleep include teething, separation anxiety, illness, growth spurts, and nap transitions.
  • If you are concerned about your baby’s sleep, please talk to your pediatrician.

Sleep regression is a temporary phase, and your baby will eventually return to their normal sleep patterns.

Refference:

https://www.sleepadvisor.org/sleep-regression/

 

Where can I go for more support? If you still feel you need more support, you can check out our   1 : 1 consultation services or our baby sleep guides or send us a message to see how else we can help.

There is a lot of information to look through, but take it one step at a time and deal with each sleep problem as it comes.  Being prepared should help make it all easier for you all but help is also available should you feel you need any extra support.

A baby sitting up on the bed with a smile on their face.
Ultimately my top tip is to remember that you can do this! I won’t lie and say it will always be easy, but just know that in the long run you are helping your baby learn a valuable skill and improving all of your sleep long term.

If you liked these tips and wanted to learn more about how to support your child to sleep at this age, my 5 star parent-rated, baby sleep guide for baby’s that are 3 to 18 months old is 

available here or why not purchase our sleep bundle to cover all sleep up until school here.

HOLISTIC BABY SLEEP COACH
Tailored Sleep Plans with 1:1 support
Gentle Sleep Solution Guides for Instant Download

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How can I help my baby sleep through Fireworks?

Why is My Child Waking Early?

How can I sirvive jet lag when traveling with baby?

How can I help my baby sleep through Fireworks?

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Will my baby sleep better if I give them a bottle?

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Separation Anxiety in Babies: Causes, Signs, and How to Help Them Through It

Separation Anxiety in Babies: Causes, Signs, and How to Help Them Through It

by | Mar 30, 2023 | baby feeding and sleep

What is separation anxiety and when and why does it happen?
What Can You Do to Help Your Baby with the separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a natural and common developmental stage that babies go through. While it can be challenging for both babies and parents, understanding the causes and recognizing the signs of separation anxiety can help you support your baby through this stage. In this blog, we’ll discuss what separation anxiety is, why it happens, when it typically occurs, what you can do to help your baby, and how you can survive this phase as a parent.

mum feeling sad as her baby is going through separation anxiety

What is Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a normal and common developmental stage that babies go through, typically starting around 6 months of age. During this stage, babies can become distressed when separated from their primary caregivers, usually their parents. This can lead to crying, clinginess, and general fussiness when left with other caregivers, such as grandparents or babysitters. Separation anxiety is a sign that your baby is developing a healthy attachment to you and is starting to understand that you are a separate person from them.

Why Does Separation Anxiety Happen?

Separation anxiety happens as a result of emotional and cognitive development in babies. As babies grow and develop, they start to understand that they are separate from their caregivers and that their caregivers can leave them. This can lead to anxiety and distress when separated from their caregivers, as babies are unsure when their caregivers will return. Separation anxiety is a normal part of a baby’s emotional and cognitive development and is a sign that your baby is developing a healthy attachment to you.

mum playing with her baby both laughing and happy

What Can You Do to Help Your Baby with the separation anxiety?

Understanding what causes separation anxiety can help you support your baby through this stage. By starting small, creating a goodbye routine, staying calm and positive, and encouraging bonding with other caregivers, you can help your baby develop a sense of security and independence that will benefit them throughout their life.

 

  • Start Small: Practice leaving your baby with other caregivers for short periods, gradually increasing the amount of time you spend apart. This will help your baby get used to being away from you and will build their confidence and independence.
  • Create a Goodbye Routine: Develop a predictable and consistent goodbye routine that helps your baby understand that you will always come back. This can include saying goodbye with a hug and a kiss or leaving a special item, such as a blanket or a toy, with your baby. Learn more about routines in our detailed  age specific sleep guides here.
  • Stay Calm and Positive: Your baby can sense when you’re anxious or upset, which can make separation anxiety worse. Stay calm and positive when leaving your baby with other caregivers, and reassure your baby that you will return.
  • Encourage Bonding with Other Caregivers: Encouraging your baby to bond with other caregivers, such as grandparents or babysitters, can help them feel more secure when you’re not around. This can include spending time with other caregivers while you’re present, so your baby can get used to being with them.
  • Use Distractions: Before leaving your baby, provide them with a fun activity or toy that will keep them occupied and distracted while you’re away. This can help your baby associate your absence with positive experiences and can make the separation easier for both of you.
  • Stick to a Routine: Establishing a consistent routine can help your baby.
  • draw or Lipstick Kiss on Their Hand: Before your baby goes to sleep, draw or put a lipstick kiss on their hand and tell them to kiss it when they feel lonely. This will help your child feel connected to you even when you’re not around.
  • Give Them a Soft Toy to look after: Giving your baby a soft toy to look after can be a great distraction when you’re not around. Your baby will feel less lonely and more responsible for looking after their toy.
  • Give Them an Item of Your Clothing: Giving your baby an item of your clothing to sleep with can provide comfort and familiarity, as it will smell like you. This can help your baby feel more secure and less anxious when you’re not around. Make sure to follow safe sleep advice and dont leave any lose item in the cot for babies under one.
  • Create a Social Story Book: Make a book with pictures of your baby, their caregivers, and family members to create a story about your baby’s day. Include their activities, people they interact with, and their bedtime routine. You can also add comforting phrases or messages that can help them feel loved and cared for even when you’re not around.
  • Establish a Bedtime Routine: A consistent bedtime routine can help your baby feel more relaxed and comfortable at bedtime. Incorporate activities such as reading the social storybook together, singing lullabies, or playing calming music. Additionally, you can create a relaxing environment by dimming the lights and using a white noise machine. This routine can also help your baby feel more connected and secure, making it easier for them to fall asleep.
  • Play Peekaboo Games: Peekaboo games can help your baby understand that even when you’re not visible, you’re still there. You can play peekaboo by covering your face with your hands or a blanket and then revealing yourself, saying “Peekaboo!” This can help your baby learn that people can disappear and reappear, but they always come back.
  • Love Bombing: Spend quality time with your baby and give them lots of attention and affection when you’re together. This can help them feel loved and secure, even when you’re not physically present. Some ways to love bomb your baby include playing with them, reading to them, cuddling, and singing to them.

  • Use Comfort Objects Safely: While comfort objects can provide your baby with a sense of security, it’s important to use them safely. If your baby is under one year old and still sleeping in a cot, avoid leaving any loose objects such as blankets or soft toys in the cot with them. Instead, you can place the comfort object near the cot or use a sleep sack that doesn’t have any loose fabric. This can reduce the risk of suffocation and other sleep-related accidents. Check here for safe sleep advice to prevent SIDs.

HOLISTIC BABY SLEEP COACH

We hope these tips can help you ease your baby’s separation anxiety and provide them with comfort and security when you’re not around. Remember, every baby is unique, and it may take some trial and error to find what works best for your little one. Be patient, consistent, and show them lots of love and attention, and they’ll soon learn that they are safe and loved.

If you need more support or have any questions, we’re here to help! You can contact us for one-on-one support or purchase our detailed sleep guide that includes more tips on how to manage separation anxiety and promote healthy sleep habits for your baby. We’re committed to helping you and your baby get the rest you both need and deserve.

Tailored Sleep Plans with 1:1 support
Gentle Sleep Solution Guides for Instant Download

Frequently asked questions:

How can parents develop sleep skills that will last a lifetime

Does mouth breathing affect my child’s sleep?

How can I help my baby sleep through Fireworks?

Why is My Child Waking Early?

How can I sirvive jet lag when traveling with baby?

How can I help my baby sleep through Fireworks?

How much sleep does my child needs?

Can vitamin D help my baby sleep better?

What foods will help baby sleep better?

How to make kids room sleep friendly?

How does blue light affect your child’s sleep?

How to make going back to work after maternity leave easier?

How to adjust child’s routine when the clocks go back?

Advice and guidance of safer sleep for babies.

How to get babies and children to sleep when traveling?

Top 10 tips for traveling with a baby, toddler or a child.

How to help baby sleep in the heat?

How to adjust child’s routine when the clocks go forward?

Is it a good idea to give baby a dummy?

Breast pumping and sleep, when is best to breast pump. 

Will my baby sleep better if I give them a bottle?

Will my baby sleep better if I feed them every 4 hours?

Will my nursery/ childcare provider support my child’s sleep?

How can I enjoy the first Christmas with my baby?

Halloween sleepy food recipes and ideas to get your children sleeping well.

Surviving 8 Week Sleep Regression with Your Baby

Surviving 8 Week Sleep Regression with Your Baby

by | Mar 6, 2023 | baby feeding and sleep

What is sleep regression, what ages will my child go though a sleep regression and how long will it last?
So why is this sleep regression happening at 8 weeks and is this normal?
What can I do to help my 8 week old during sleep regression?

As a Baby Sleep Coach, one thing I find parents quickly learn about feeling you are getting the hang of having a newborn and navigating their sleep patterns, is that you shouldn’t get too comfortable. Over the first few years of their life, your child will go through many regressions in their sleep. The best way to tackle this sleep turmoil is to be prepared and not to be blindsided when your good sleeper is suddenly a sleep avoider.

mum holding new born swaddled baby

But let me reassure you, it will not last forever and will eventually pass. It is important not to create new ‘bad habits’, so check the advice below on what you can do to survive the sleep regression at 8 weeks.A sleep regression is a period of time, usually lasting a few weeks, during which a baby or young child who previously slept well suddenly begins to wake up frequently during the night and have difficulty falling or staying asleep. Sleep regressions can occur at several different ages, including around 8 weeks, 4 months, 8 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 2 years old.

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that there is a specific “8-week sleep regression.” However, many parents report that their babies go through a period of disrupted sleep patterns around the 8-week mark.

During this time, babies may have trouble settling down to sleep, may wake up more frequently during the night, and may be more fussy or irritable during the day. This can be a challenging time for both parents and babies, as disrupted sleep can lead to exhaustion and stress.

Some possible reasons why babies may experience disrupted sleep around 8 weeks of age include growth spurts, developmental changes, or a shift in their circadian rhythms. However, every baby is different, and the exact cause of disrupted sleep patterns may vary from one baby to the next.

What age will my child go through a sleep regression?

  • 8 weeks
  • 4 months
  • 8 – 10 Months
  • 12 – 15 Months
  • 2 years

How long does sleep regression last?

The length of a sleep regression can vary depending on the individual child and the cause of the regression. Some sleep regressions may only last a few days or a week, while others may last for several weeks. But let me reassure you, it will not last forever and will eventually pass. It is important not to create new ‘bad habits’, so check the advice below on what you can do to survive the sleep regression at 8 weeks.

mum sitting in the chair holding a baby sleeping on her chest

So why is the sleep regression happening at 8 weeks?

It is roughly around the two month mark that your baby undergoes both physiological and hormonal changes because that is just a part of them growing up! This first one is due to the fact that all of the melatonin they had stored up from their mothers while in the womb is now switching to their own system where they begin to produce their own! You would probably think it was pretty amazing if you weren’t so tired. You know the term ‘sleepy newborn’? Well that is all about to change as they become more aware of their environment and the people in it and will become more alert to their surroundings. Now the world is becoming a much bigger place for them as their sight improves too, who wouldn’t want to take all of that in as much as they could?

Is this the new normal?

All those changes I said were happening to your baby right now are hear to start and are all part of your babies development. The frustration at having a baby who you won’t go back to sleep  however, will get easier.  Your baby will start producing their own melatonin, they will learn to settle themselves and to go back to sleep between periods of rest.  Also those nap times will increase, giving you a much needed break.

mum kissing her newborn baby

What can I do to help my 8 week old during sleep regression?

As difficult as things may seem right now, I am here to tell you it isn’t all as depressing as it seems and to give you my top 4 survival tips.

1. Make changes to where they sleep.

Make sure you are making the night sleep vs day sleep very black and white. Keep your daytime interactions in brightly lit rooms. Make the awake time fun – lots to do, lots to see.  Nap time and bedtime is for settling down relaxing and ultimately aiming for a much deeper sleep with no distractions. The darkness will help the melatonin I mentioned your baby is trying their best to produce. A black out blind may help.

2. Avoid making changes to routine

Set your routine and stick with it. It isn’t going to instantly make things better because it’s a sleep regression but making changes or adding gadgets will mean your baby has too many things going on and will be more difficult to settle. Be strong, be consistent and your reward will come in the long run.

3. Create a calm sleeping environment

Make sure your baby’s sleeping environment is conducive to sleep. Keep the room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Consider using a white noise machine or a soothing sound to help your baby relax.

4. Comfort your baby

When your baby wakes up at night, offer comfort without picking them up if possible. Use soothing words and gentle touches to help them relax and go back to sleep.

5. Practice safe sleep

Make sure your baby is sleeping in a safe environment, such as on their back in a crib with a firm mattress and fitted sheet.

6. Get support

Reach out to friends and family members for support during this challenging time. Consider hiring a childcare provider or asking a family member to watch your baby for a few hours so you can rest.

7. Take care of yourself

Try to get enough rest yourself by napping when your baby sleeps, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. Remember that taking care of yourself is essential to being a good parent.

8. Be patient

Remember that the 8-week sleep regression is a phase that will eventually pass. Be patient and keep trying different techniques to help your baby sleep better.

9. Bigger the baby the bigger the feed

Your baby has a growing belly, but it doesn’t mean they have realised that. If they are still taking the small feeds that their few day old self was eating, then it makes sense that they will wake up sooner hungrier because they weren’t full in the first place. This might mean a feed now will easily send them back to sleep, but if you are not doing feed on demand, then encouraging a bigger feed rather than a snack will help them to settle for longer. Check out my blog on whether Baby will sleep better if you give them an extra bottle.

10. Well-timed (and placed) naps

As I mentioned early, your sleepy newborn is slowly disappearing and their awake times are becoming more frequent. Your baby’s awake times should have been extended from when they were first born and you can gradually increase the time they are awake to prevent them from being under-tired and therefore waking up too soon, or not resettling once they are awake. Doing this gradually will hopefully prevent them going too far the other way and becoming overtired and struggling to even get them to sleep.

HOLISTIC BABY SLEEP COACH

Hopefully these tips will help you to survive having an unsettled baby. Pick your schedule, add in some white noise, consider swaddling if you don’t already and most importantly – stick with it. Their melatonin won’t increase in a day but with these tips you can give your baby the best possible chance to get through the first sleep regression and hopefully save your sanity.

If you liked these tips and wanted to learn more about how to support your child to sleep at this age, my 5 star parent-rated, baby sleep guide for baby’s that are 0 – 3 months old is available here or why not purchase our sleep bundle to cover all sleep up until school here.

 

Have you downloaded your freebie yet? Top 10 Baby Sleep Coach Tips To Help Your Baby Sleep Better Guide! If not, then make sure to click here.


For more advice on how to help your baby sleep and find a baby sleep solution that works for you and your family, you can check out our  1 : 1 consultation services or our new baby sleep guides which come with free access to my Sleepy Village Facebook community for easy access to get your questions answered.

Tailored Sleep Plans with 1:1 support
Gentle Sleep Solution Guides for Instant Download

Frequently Asked Questions On How Can I Make My Child Sleep Better:

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Does mouth breathing affect my child’s sleep?

Does mouth breathing affect my child’s sleep?

by | Jan 18, 2023 | Baby sleep Safety, Working parents

Why might my child breathe through their nose?
Why is it a problem is my child breathes through their mouth?
Are there any benefits to breathing through your nose?
How do I know if my child is a mouth breather?
Why is mouth breathing causing my child to have a restless night?
How can I help my child breathe through their nose?

If your child has trouble sleeping, or wakes up during the night it could be that you have a mouth breather on your hands. As a baby sleep coach, I see how common mouth breathing is in young children and how this could be the reason your child is not sleeping through the night, so read on to see Mouth Breathing could be affecting your child or baby’s sleep.

mouth breathing baby sleeping

Why might my child breathe through their nose?

For the first few months of their lives, newborn babies breathe pretty much exclusively through their nose unless there’s a reason they can’t such as having a blockage in their nasal passage, usually because your little one has a cold.  In a bid to keep taking in oxygen, they will use their mouth to breathe because their nose is not up to the job.  A more long-term reason for nasal congestion could be allergies that hinder a child’s airway and forces them to use their mouth to breathe.  Because symptoms from allergies are over a longer period of time, this is more likely to encourage new (and bad) habits of resorting to breathing through the mouth even after the airway is cleared.

asian girl sleeping in the bed

Why is it a problem if my child breathes through their mouth?

When it comes to mouth breathing, there are several factors that make it something to avoid.  Both doctors and dentists suggest many side effects of mouth breathing that can cause your child discomfort and even lead to more long-term problems developing.  In young children, breathing solely through the mouth can cause dry mouth and contribute to crooked teeth.  It can lead to physical abnormalities if left to continue over a longer period of time and it can also cause dental problems as well contributing to a disrupted sleeping pattern. 

baby sleeping on the side in their cot

Are there any benefits to breathing through your nose?

Breathing through the nose is a more efficient way of using oxygen, which in turn leads to producing Nitric oxide which aids your immune system in tackling infections.  The mucus and tiny hairs in your nose also help to filter out unwanted small particles such as germs, dust or pollen and stop them from entering your lungs.  Breathing in a more efficient breath full of oxygen also helps improve brain functions and blood flow around our bodies. It helps us breathe into our lungs, air that is full of moisture as well as helping to warm the air before it gets there.  Plus it is usually quieter for the parents listening on the baby monitor!

child sleeping with mouth open mouth breathing or snoring

How do I know if my child is a mouth breather?

Young children may not be able to tell you that they have symptoms like an adult would, as they may not be able to explain what is happening to them.  There are, however, some symptoms you can look for in children which include: slower than normal growth; irritability or crying episodes during the night; dry mouth or lips; trouble concentrating for a length of time and being sleepy throughout the day.

Why is mouth breathing causing my child to have a restless night?

Mouth breathing, rather than nose breathing, can lead to your child experiencing interrupted or reduced breathing. This means their body will react to that by restarting their breathing, potentially with a snort or gasp that will in turn wake your child up.  Less oxygen to the brain also means their brains won’t get enough rest so will be more tired throughout the day.  It also means they may want to nap or go to bed early which again means good sleeping patterns are disrupted. Because of some of these factors, children have in the past been wrongly diagnosed with ADHD (research shows) due to their sharing of symptoms such as restlessness or a lack of concentration when in fact it is a much more simple case of sleep deprivation. 

toddler sleeping with mouth open mouth breathing

How can I help my child breathe through their nose?

If your child is breathing through their mouth because of an obvious problem such as an illness blocking their nose, then you can treat that in the same ways you would normally, such as by using a nasal spray or appropriate medication to ease the congestion.  If the problem is to do with allergies, then things to keep the air clear like a dehumidifier will help alleviate a blocked nose.  

If your child is no longer ill and is still breathing through their mouth, then it might be advisable to get them checked out by your GP just to check if they have enlarged tonsils or adenoids (which are patches of tissue in the throat).
You can actively encourage children who are able to understand to do breathing exercises so they can become more aware of their nose breathing.  This can help instil good breathing habits that will eventually become natural to them so that they can hopefully continue this through the night. 
Lastly creating a calm and relaxing environment free of stress and maybe adding in some yoga and deep breathing into the calming down bedtime routine to also help to reinforce this. 

Cute snorts and adorable sleeping babies aside, nothing is more important than our baby’s health and by treating the little sniffles as soon as possible, it can be so beneficial to their health now and in the future as well as making sure that your child (as well as the parents) get a much coveted good night’s sleep.

If your child is waking up too early in the morning to start their day, there may be other factors at work! Take a look at our Early Rising Sleep Guide to help your little one sleep until a reasonable wake-up time.

 

HOLISTIC BABY SLEEP COACH

 

Have you downloaded your freebie yet? Top 10 Baby Sleep Coach Tips To Help Your Baby Sleep Better Guide! If not, then make sure to click here.


For more advice on how to help your baby sleep and find a baby sleep solution that works for you and your family, you can check out our  1 : 1 consultation services or our new baby sleep guides which come with free access to my Sleepy Village Facebook community for easy access to get your questions answered.

Tailored Sleep Plans with 1:1 support
Gentle Sleep Solution Guides for Instant Download

Frequently Asked Questions On How Can I Make My Child Sleep Better:

Why is My Child Waking Early?

How can I sirvive jet lag when traveling with baby?

How can I help my baby sleep through Fireworks?

How much sleep does my child needs?

Can vitamin D help my baby sleep better?

What foods will help baby sleep better?

How to make kids room sleep friendly?

How does blue light affect your child’s sleep?

How to make going back to work after maternity leave easier?

How to adjust child’s routine when the clocks go back?

Advice and guidance of safer sleep for babies.

How to get babies and children to sleep when traveling?

Top 10 tips for traveling with a baby, toddler or a child.

How to help baby sleep in the heat?

How to adjust child’s routine when the clocks go forward?

Is it a good idea to give baby a dummy?

Breast pumping and sleep, when is best to breast pump. 

Will my baby sleep better if I give them a bottle?

Will my baby sleep better if I feed them every 4 hours?

Will my nursery/ childcare provider support my child’s sleep?

How can I enjoy the first Christmas with my baby?

Halloween sleepy food recipes and ideas to get your children sleeping well.