How to Handle Short Naps
2023/08/25

ADVERTISEMENT

Somewhere in between the newborn bliss of sleeping all day and the hustle and bustle of a baby on the go, we may hit a stage of sleep that has a name! The "45-minute Short Nap Intruder". Rest assured, this is a normal phenomenon, and we will cover what to do about it. And remember, we all have good nap days and bad ones, too! 

First things first, we want you to know that it is normal for babies to sleep for 30-45 minutes, fuss, toss & turn for 10-15 minutes, then doze back off for 30 minutes or a bit more. Let's talk about how to handle short naps.

There are a few things we can do for short naps:

ADVERTISEMENT

Routine Consistency is key (when realistically possible)! Follow along with Moms on Call's Typical Day schedules located in the Moms on Call Books. See *Crazy Day Tips for getting through those harder days while keeping on track!  Sometimes, moving up to the following routine is what is needed. Check with your Moms on Call Consultant to see if moving up is best for your baby!  Lastly, the pre-nap routine consists of the following: Diaper Change  Snuggle Time  Storytime Environment We recommend that babies sleep in a crib in their room. The crib should be free of toys, blankets, pillows, and any stimulation.

ADVERTISEMENT

  Blinds can be left slightly open for natural light to come in. (Also, put any hanging cords cut up high so babies or toddlers cannot reach them). White noise! The right sound machine can make all the difference. White noise is reminiscent of the sounds that babies hear inside the womb. The white noise machine should be turned up loud enough for you to hear on the other side of the door.  Under 12 weeks of age, swaddle right, tight, tight, tight! Watch the Moms on Call Swaddling Video for tips on getting swaddled right!  Over 12 weeks of age, we recommend footed pajamas.

AD
Article
news flash