New Skills and Sleep Disruptions

Aren’t babies incredible? In a short time, they go from tiny sleepy bundles to active little ones. You are so proud when they start rolling over, sitting, walking, talking and so much more. Each of these new skills is a huge accomplishment for your baby! However, science shows us that learning these new skills can cause sleep disruptions.⁽¹⁾ You weren't just imagining it! Let me explain in this video:

Here are a few tips that can help you avoid sleep battles while they master this new skill:#anchor

1. Practice during the day.#anchor

Help your little one practice new skills on the floor. Did he learn to roll? Do lots of tummy time together. Is she a new crawler? Encourage that crawling by putting toys a bit out of reach. Newly sitting or standing? Practice going from standing to sitting and sitting to laying. All of this practice during the day will help make the new skill less exciting at night. It ALSO provides active and stimulating awake time that helps your baby's body prepare for sleep during naps and at night.

2. Consider a sleep sack.#anchor

Sleep sacks are a great cue that it's time for sleep, reminding your little one that playtime is over. They can also limit mobility making that exciting new skill a little less enticing in the night or during nap time.

3. Stay consistent AND give everyone grace.#anchor

Don’t throw out all of your healthy sleep habits. There's no need to stop your normal routines and sleep strategies. At the same time, try not to get frustrated with these sleep interruptions. Learning a new skill is hard and exciting, and when your baby's brain is busy, sleep can take a back seat. This is temporary, and it will pass with consistency and patience.

4. Create a strong sleep foundation BEFORE you hit the next big skill. #anchor

Having a solid sleep foundation is a key factor in navigating setbacks caused by developmental strides or regressions.⁣ If you're looking at the road ahead and wondering how you can prevent or reduce sleep struggles going forward, I can help. Know that all of my classes will meet your baby right where they are developmentally while keeping you emotionally connected throughout the entire process. Let me teach you the tools you need to lay that healthy sleep foundation.

I want you to enjoy these beautiful moments with your baby. Sure, new skills CAN disrupt sleep for a bit, but tools are available to help you. You don't have to do this alone.