Look for the following cues:
Fussiness and irritability- cue the meltdowns
Difficulty falling asleep
Short naps or frequent night wakings- waking up fussy at these shorter sleep windows
Increased crying (hysterically) or fussing
Difficulty calming down
Resistance to sleep routines
Redness in the face
When a baby is overtired, their body releases stress hormones (Cortisol) which can make it harder for them to relax and fall asleep. This can lead to a cycle of poor sleep and increased tiredness, making it important to recognize the signs of overtiredness and adjust the baby's sleep schedule accordingly. Not only is there an increase in the stress hormones, there is also a disruption in the production of sleepy/calming hormones such as Melatonin that allow children the fall asleep and stay asleep better.
How to prevent overtiredness:
Focus on sticking to age related wake windows.
Put you child to sleep when signs of being tired arise.
Ensure your child is getting enough day sleep to avoid being overtired by bedtime.
What to do if your child is overtired:
Decrease external stimuli
Quiet room
Dim lighting
No artificial light (phones/TV)
Soothing sounds- "Shh"-er or white noise sound machine
De-escalate by utilizing soothing techniques
5 S's for infants
Swaddle
Side position (hold child sideways with their back against you
Shh
Swing (short, fast rock/swing like motions)
Sucking- pacifier use
Breathing technique for toddlers
Blowing out the birthday candles- deep breathing strategy
Help your little one to sleep
Consider an early bedtime if your child is reaching an overtired state.
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