1. Lack of a proper sleep environment:
During the first couple of months of life babies can usually sleep on the go, but as they grow and become more aware of their surroundings they need a more calm and stable sleep environment - one that is safe, dark, quiet and temperate.
2. Lack of a consistent bedtime routine:
A calm, simple, predictable bedtime routine is an essential tool to help your little one prepare to sleep. You can start implementing a bedtime routine as early as 6 weeks of age. As your child grows your routine will change, but it will remain an important part of your nightly ritual for some time.
3. In order for your child to fall asleep he/she needs you (to rock, walk, bounce, hold, feed, lay next to, etc...):
Holding, rocking and feeding your child are all natural and wonderful behaviors. It only becomes problematic when your child becomes dependent on you in order to go to sleep or stay asleep. Many parents find themselves in the situation where the sleep association that once worked so well suddenly stops working or takes longer and longer to achieve the end result (sleep), which then leads to frustration and exhaustion for everyone.
4. Not following an age appropriate sleep schedule:
All children need a predicable bedtime, wake time and naptime(s). While it is tempting to put your little one on your schedule, babies and children have their own unique sleep needs and sleep windows. It is important to have an age appropriate sleep schedule for your little one so that he/she is getting the sleep he/she needs.
5. Limit testing:
If your little one is over a year of age then you might have started to experience limit testing - where your child will do everything he/she can to stall, drag out or delay bedtime. Toddlers can sometimes give Oscar worthy performances or throw mega fits. Either way, consistent boundaries and a predictable bedtime routine are very important.
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If your family needs individualized pediatric sleep support, please do not hesitate to contact Rest Well Baby (www.restwellbaby.com) to learn more about our gentle sleep coaching services and to schedule a FREE 15 minute initial phone call anywhere in the United States. Rest Well Baby - helping tired families get the sleep they need!
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Wishing you all a restful night's sleep! www.restwellbaby.com