How To Spot Signs Of An Overtired Child?

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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