Sleep problems: Restless sleep

Restless sleep is less problematic for some than when a baby actually wakes at night. However, if the parent is a light sleeper, a baby's sounds and fidgeting can wreak havoc with a night's rest. You might not be able to change the cause (although often this is quite easy if you are willing to try) or the character of your child (if it is in her nature to be a light sleeper), but here are a few hints for those whose babies are restless sleepers – that is, they sleep but move around a lot and make quite a noise:

• Consider putting this type of baby in her own room with a baby monitor, so that you can hear if you are needed.
• Alternatively, the parent who is a light sleeper could sleep elsewhere until the baby has outgrown this phase. To survive a restless sleeper, both Mom and Dad will need to take shifts. See it as a cooperative effort for the common good and you will find your relationship becomes stronger.
• Lastly, remember that restless sleepers are often allergic babies and if you treat the allergy, they might just sleep much better. It is as if excess mucus, itchy skin and digestive discomfort, which are the most common manifestations of allergies, affect sound sleep.

By Sister Lilian

Sleep problems: Medicines and sleep

sister lilian, sleep, baby, toddler, co-sleeping