Learning To Sleep Through the Night (6-12 months)
Here's What To Do
1
If I'm over six months old and wake up frequently for feedings, it might help to wean me off my middle-of-the night feeding.
- Check with my pediatrician first to see if this is appropriate for me.
- Gradually decrease the amount or length of time of my feedings (i.e. if I usually drink 6 ounces, decrease it to 5 and then 4 ounces.)
2
If I awaken during the night and do not need to eat, you can try to prevent my middle-of-the-night awakenings from becoming a pattern.
- If I'm just fussing a bit, wait to see if I'll fall back asleep without your help.
- If it sounds like my crying is getting worse, respond, but try to be "boring." Change me and sing me a soothing song, but don't play with me.
3
Try to keep my nap and bedtimes as consistent as possible.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Pause before you comfort me during night wakings and see if I'll put myself back to sleep.
E
Engage:
- "Hi Kai. I'm going to change your diaper and sing you one song but then it's time to sleep. It's night time, it's still time to sleep."
- "You're okay, let Mama give you a quick back rub and then I'll see you in the morning."
E
Encourage:
- Know that sleep patterns can vary greatly between babies and can be difficult to predict. If you have any concerns, check with my pediatrician.
- Any changes in routine (like illness or travel) can disrupt my sleep. Getting back into our regular routines as soon as we can will help me settle back into my typical sleep pattern.
R
Reflect:
- What seems to help me sleep for longer stretches at night?
As your child grows...
They will gradually decrease their night wakings and decrease the number of naps they take in a day.