By: Taylor Johnson
Updated: Feb. 28, 2020
Babies have a knack for keeping parents on their toes, especially when it seems like they’ve finally mastered sleeping through the night—only to wake up crying at odd hours like 2 A.M. As a parent, each time my little one experiences a sleep disruption, my first instinct is to consult Dr. Google. This virtual physician is always available, unlike my pediatrician, who is likely fast asleep while I’m navigating the sleepless nights.
My late-night searches on Google often lead me to the same recurring themes regarding why my baby is awake. Here are eleven potential reasons your child might be waking up at 2 A.M., along with some practical suggestions to help resolve these issues:
- Developmental Milestones: As babies learn new skills—whether it’s rolling over or crawling—they often feel the need to practice these abilities. This might mean more wakeful nights ahead. Brace yourself with some calming beverages and earplugs; there’s little that can be done here.
- Teething: If your baby is between two months and two years, teething could be the culprit. This discomfort is said to rival labor pains, yet the best remedy might simply be a cold washcloth to chew on.
- Hunger: A hungry baby will likely cry for food. However, feeding them at night can create challenging sleep associations, leading to further wakefulness. Balance is key.
- Circadian Rhythm Differences: Babies often have a different sleep rhythm compared to adults. They might cycle in and out of REM sleep every thirty minutes or so, making it difficult for them to settle into a deep sleep.
- Temperature Issues: If it’s too warm, consider lowering the thermostat. Aim for around 68 degrees and remove excess bedding or stuffed animals to ensure your baby is comfortable.
- Chill in the Air: Conversely, if it’s too cold, your baby may need a warmer environment. Aim for about 72.43 degrees for optimal comfort, and dress them in cotton layers and a safe sleep sack.
- Reflux: For babies suffering from reflux, lying down can be uncomfortable. Keeping them in a slightly elevated position can sometimes help alleviate this issue.
- Growth Spurts: Babies go through various growth spurts, which can lead to increased hunger during the night. However, be cautious about letting them fall asleep while feeding to avoid dependency.
- Night Terrors: If your baby is experiencing night terrors, it can be distressing for both of you. While Google cannot diagnose this, monitoring their sleep patterns can help.
- Hair Tourniquet: Check for any hair wrapped around your baby’s toe, as this can cause discomfort and circulation issues. Immediate attention is required to prevent complications.
- Sleep Associations: If your baby has formed sleep associations—like needing to fall asleep to a specific TV show—it may be time to implement sleep training. Just be mindful of their emotional response during the process.
For further insights into parenting and baby care, explore our other blog posts, such as this one that discusses parenting challenges. Resources like Make a Mom are also available to guide you in your journey. Moreover, ASRM provides excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, while sleepless nights are a common aspect of parenthood, understanding the reasons behind your baby’s wakefulness can help you tackle the challenges more effectively. Every parent faces these trials, but with a bit of patience and the right knowledge, you can navigate through them.