As a sleep expert, I understand how frustrating it can be when your little one wakes up too early. If you’re tired of those early mornings and craving more sleep, you’re in the right place! Here are 3 effective tips to help your baby or toddler sleep in longer and enjoy better rest:
1️⃣ Create the Right Sleep Schedule: The Key to Longer Sleep ⏰
One of the fastest ways to resolve early morning wake-ups is to ensure your little one is following a sleep schedule that’s age-appropriate. The timing and duration of naps are crucial for a restful night’s sleep. Too much or too little daytime sleep, or naps at the wrong time, can lead to early waking. If you’re unsure about the best sleep schedule for your baby or toddler, feel free to send me a DM, and I’ll guide you to the right routine for their age.
2️⃣ Is It a Habit or Something Else? 🌙
Early waking can sometimes become a habit, but the good news is, just like adjusting to a new time zone, your child’s internal body clock can be reset. By sticking to a consistent routine, their body will naturally adjust and sleep patterns should improve. However, early waking might not always be habit-forming—here are other potential causes:
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Sleep Environment: With the changing seasons, lighter mornings could disrupt your little one’s sleep. Ensure their sleep space is completely blackout dark to prevent early wake-ups. Even small slats of light creeping in can trigger an early start to the day.
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Hunger: Make sure your baby is well-fed before bedtime. For toddlers and older children, I recommend offering a small “supper” before bed to help prevent waking up hungry in the early hours.
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Temperature: Babies and toddlers are sensitive to temperature changes, especially between 3am-7am. A slight dip in room temperature, even by 1-2 degrees, could be enough to wake your little one too early. Ensure their room stays at a consistent, comfortable temperature throughout the night.
3️⃣ Consistency is Key 🕖
All children thrive on routine, and early waking is no exception. Once you’ve identified a plan to tackle early rising, consistency is crucial. Stick with the changes, and you’ll see improvements over time.
In Summary:
Patience and consistency are the keys to helping your little one sleep longer and wake up after 6am. By adjusting their sleep schedule, optimising the sleep environment, and ensuring they’re well-fed and comfortable, you can improve their sleep patterns and get more rest yourself!
Give these tips a try, and with time, I’m confident your family’s sleep will improve. 💕