Blog · 20 October 2024

5 Reasons Your Healthy Baby is Crying Instead of Sleeping

Attention new parents, this is for you. Babies need sleep, they want sleep, and they can sleep. If they’re not sleeping, there are reasons why. In a healthy baby, these reasons are often straightforward.

Meeting your baby’s basic needs will make them feel calm, content, and loved. However, if these needs aren’t met, they will become upset and cry. As a loving parent, it’s easy to worry and imagine the worst when your baby is crying and not sleeping. However, the reasons for their crying are often basic and easy to address—if you know what to look for.

Here are some reasons why your baby may be crying and not sleeping:

1. Your Baby is Overtired

When a baby isn’t getting enough sleep throughout the day and night, they become overtired and exhausted. Babies need a significant amount of sleep every 24 hours. Without it, they often struggle to fall and stay asleep. Particularly for young babies, they don’t need to be awake for long periods before needing more sleep. Responding to your baby’s tired signs and getting them down for a nap or bedtime when they are tired, not overtired, will help them settle more easily and sleep better.

2. Your Baby is Hungry

A hungry baby will cry and will not sleep. Feeding and sleeping are closely linked—a well-fed baby who has had a full feed will sleep much longer than a hungry one. While feeding on demand is important, constant snacking can disrupt sleep. Space out your baby’s feeds during the day and night, allowing them to build up hunger for a full feed. This helps them stay satisfied longer and nap better.

3. Your Baby is Cold

Babies need to feel warm and cozy to sleep well. If they are cold, they will struggle to fall asleep and may have trouble staying asleep. Pay attention to how you dress your baby for sleep and the temperature of their room. Don’t be afraid to add layers or use a safe heater during colder months to ensure they stay warm and comfortable.

4. Your Baby’s Conditions Change

If a baby falls asleep under certain conditions (being held, fed, rocked, or with a pacifier), they may fall asleep easily. However, if these conditions change (such as being placed in their crib alone or losing the pacifier), they may wake up and cry. Establish a habit of putting your baby down in their crib or bassinet for naps and bedtime. When they wake, the familiar conditions will help them fall back to sleep on their own.

5. Your Baby is Unwell

A healthy baby who is coming down with a cold or is unwell may cry more and sleep less. If you suspect your baby is unwell, consult your GP or paediatrician. During illness, extra feeding and holding may be necessary. Prioritize sleep for your baby, as well-rested babies cope with illness better than those who are exhausted and sleep-deprived. The same goes for you—rest is crucial for both baby and parents.

Addressing these common issues to infant crying can help soothe your crying baby and ensure they get the rest they need.

Still Unsure?

If you’re still uncertain and need further support, I invite you to explore the packages I offer. Additionally, I provide comprehensive sleep guides that you can explore here. These guides cover everything from newborns to toddlers, ensuring you have the resources you need for a good night’s sleep.

Should you have any doubts about which package to choose, I’m available for a free call that you can schedule here. Together, we can determine the best support for your child’s sleep needs and ensure a perfect fit for your family.

Feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!