Babies require adequate sleep for optimal growth and development. However, some parents unintentionally put their baby’s sleep at risk, making them susceptible to various sleep-related problems.

Here are some of the most common ways that parents unknowingly endanger their baby’s sleep quality.

1. Allowing Fussy Infants to Sleep on Their Stomachs

When infants develop colic, some parents allow them to sleep on their stomachs to help relieve their distress. While this may offer temporary relief, it increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all infants sleep on their backs during naps and nighttime sleep to lower the risk of SIDS.

2. Overfeeding the Baby Before Bed

Overfeeding your baby prior to bedtime can cause discomfort, gas, and even reflux, which can interrupt their sleep. Ensure that you feed your baby an adequate serving size while considering their age, weight, and feeding habits.

Also, avoid feeding them right before bed to give their digestive system ample time to process their food and alleviate any stomach discomfort that can wake them up.

3. Overstimulating Your Baby at Bedtime

Making bedtime exciting and playful can be detrimental to your child’s sleep routine. Avoid overstimulating them with bright lights, loud noises, and rigorous playtime before bedtime.

Instead, establish a relaxing bedtime routine that includes soft music, a warm bath, dim light, and a calming storybook.

4. Ignoring Sleep Cues

When babies are tired, they display clear signs that they are ready for sleep. These can include fussiness, rubbing their eyes, yawning, and so on.

Ignoring these sleep cues can make it harder for your baby to fall asleep, which can lead to sleep deprivation. Learn to recognize your baby’s sleep cues and provide them with a proper sleep environment that promotes a healthy sleep pattern.

5. Letting Your Baby Fall Asleep in Your Arms

While it can be tempting to cuddle your baby to sleep, doing so regularly can affect their sleeping habits. Your baby may become reliant on this routine and struggle to fall asleep on their own.

Instead, put your baby down in their crib when they are drowsy but still awake. This helps them learn to fall asleep without the need for physical comfort.

6. Inconsistent Sleep Schedule

A consistent sleep schedule is essential for a baby’s sleep routine. Ensuring that your baby wakes up and goes to bed at the same time every day helps their body establish a reliable sleep pattern.

Inconsistent sleep schedules can disrupt their circadian rhythm, making it harder for them to settle down and fall asleep.

7. Keeping Your Baby Awake Too Long

Keeping your baby awake for long periods can make them overtired and irritable. This can make it harder for them to fall asleep and stay asleep, leading to a restless night’s sleep.

Ensure that your baby gets enough sleep during the day to avoid overstimulation and being overtired at bedtime.

8. Room Temperature

The ideal sleeping temperature for a baby is between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. A room that is too hot or too cold can disrupt your baby’s sleep and make them uncomfortable.

Consider using a wearable blanket or a sleeping sack to keep your baby warm, instead of any loose bedding that can cause suffocation hazards.

9. Exposure to Screens Before Bedtime

Exposure to screens a few hours before bedtime can disrupt your baby’s sleep. The blue light emitted by screens suppresses the production of melatonin, the hormone that controls your body’s sleep-wake cycle.

Avoid screen exposure before bedtime and encourage quiet-time activities such as reading a book or playing with soft toys.

10. Inconsistent Sleep Environment

The environment in which your baby sleeps plays an essential role in facilitating an optimal sleeping experience. Ensure that your baby’s sleep area is safe, quiet, and comfortable.

Remove any items that can pose a safety hazard, such as loose bedding, pillows, or stuffed toys.

Conclusion

As a parent, there are various steps you can take to ensure that your baby gets adequate and quality sleep.

Avoiding harmful habits such as allowing your baby to sleep on their stomachs, overfeeding before bed, overstimulating, and ignoring sleep cues can help promote healthy sleep patterns. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and a conducive sleep environment can further enhance your baby’s sleeping experience.