Frequent night wakings are one of the biggest challenges for new parents. While it’s normal for newborns to wake up often, some babies continue waking frequently even as they grow. Understanding the reasons behind night wakings and using the right strategies can help everyone in the family get better sleep.
1 – Why Do Babies Wake Up at Night?
🚼 Hunger – Newborns need to eat every few hours, but by 4–6 months, most can go longer stretches without feeding.
🚼 Sleep Regressions – Growth spurts or developmental changes can temporarily disrupt sleep.
🚼 Discomfort – A wet diaper, teething pain, or room temperature changes can wake the baby.
🚼 Overtiredness – Babies who miss naps or stay awake too long can have trouble settling at night.
🚼 Sleep Associations – If a baby is used to falling asleep only while being rocked or fed, they may struggle to self-soothe.
2 – How to Reduce Night Wakings
2.1 Establish a Strong Bedtime Routine
✔️ Follow a predictable sequence: bath, pajamas, feeding, lullaby, and crib.
✔️ Keep bedtime consistent every night.
2.2 Encourage Full Feedings During the Day
✔️ Make sure your baby gets enough milk/formula during the day to avoid unnecessary night feedings.
✔️ If your baby falls asleep while feeding, try gently waking them to finish eating.
2.3 Teach Self-Soothing Skills
✔️ Put the baby down drowsy but awake so they learn to fall asleep without being rocked or fed.
✔️ If they wake up, wait a moment before picking them up to see if they resettle on their own.
2.4 Create an Ideal Sleep Environment
✔️ Use blackout curtains to keep the room dark.
✔️ Maintain a comfortable room temperature (around 20–22°C).
✔️ Try white noise to drown out background sounds.
2.5 Avoid Overstimulation Before Bed
✔️ Keep nighttime interactions calm and quiet.
✔️ Limit bright lights and screen exposure in the evening.
2.6 Check for Discomfort
✔️ Ensure your baby has a clean diaper before bedtime.
✔️ If teething, offer a teething toy or consult a pediatrician for pain relief options.
3 – When to Seek Help
If your baby wakes up excessively (every hour) or struggles to sleep despite all efforts, it may be time to:
✔️ Talk to a pediatrician to rule out medical issues like reflux or allergies.
✔️ Consult a sleep coach if night wakings persist beyond the expected age.
4 – Final Thoughts
Helping a baby sleep through the night is a process that requires patience and consistency. By addressing hunger, creating a soothing sleep environment, and encouraging self-soothing, parents can reduce night wakings and enjoy more restful nights.
