If you're a new parent, you're probably no stranger to the struggle of short naps. It's frustrating when your little one just can't seem to sleep for longer than 30 minutes at a time. But don't worry, it's normal for babies up to 5-6 months old to take short naps. If your baby is older and still struggling with short naps, we've got 6 tips to help!
Adjust Awake Windows: Over-tired or under-tired babies tend to take shorter naps. Try adjusting the amount of time your baby is awake before a nap to find their sweet spot.
Have a Quick Feeding: Ensure your baby has a full feeding before a nap. This will help prevent hunger from waking them up mid-nap.
Teach Them to Initiate Sleep: After 4-5 months old, your baby will start developing adult-like sleep cycles. It's important to teach your baby to initiate sleep independently, so they can transition through sleep cycles without waking up.
Make Sure it's Dark: Ensure your baby's sleep environment is pitch black. This will help them wind down and settle for a longer nap.
Use White Noise: White noise helps babies feel calm and comfortable. Ensure the white noise machine is a continuous sound and loud enough (50 decibels) to create a soothing environment.
Don't Rush In: Sometimes babies need a few minutes to transition through sleep cycles. Don't rush in to soothe them immediately - give them a chance to fall back asleep on their own.
Incorporate these tips into your baby's nap routine to help them sleep longer and better.