23-2-2009 - When your LO wakes often at night

My mood while writing this blog: Ok

Just thought I'd add some of my posts in blogs for easy reference since they are common concerns or questions :) TX!

(()) Hugs, it is so hard when at this age they are still waking up ~ first thing I`d do before attmeping the CIO it to rule out all other possibilities ~ esp since most wake for a reason, esp if it is nurmerous times. I would make sure he has a full tummy at bedtime. Not so much just milk but solid foods, that is often the main factor ~ waking for hunger (solid food hunger) ~ also be sure bedtime is the right time and he is tired. If the bedtime is to early it will be a long battle. My kids at 8 months always had a nap around the dinner hour then went down around 9-10ish. Sure the idea is to not do that and send baby to bed at 8ish to wake around 6 but some times that just isnt the option and you have to do what works. This worked with all 3 of mine. Also in addition to solids be sure the bottle or milk he is drinking is enough ~ my kids always drank an 8 oz bottle at bedtime even if they drank only 6 during the day. You can do it straight or use the `top it off` method. No more then an hour prior to bedtime feed a regular bottle or nurse, then at bedtime change diaper again then feed another 4 oz or nurse. I often feed cereal right before bedtime too and that really helps. Make sure your LO isnt to cold, hot, room to dark or light. My crib is lined with toys that hang, should Hunter wake he plays with his toys. If your LO doesnt have a security item be sure he has one, now is the time. My babies all have security blankets. They need to feel secure to fall back to sleep on their one. All you are going to do if you do the CIO is make it worse if there is a real reason he needs you which I feel. I only did the CIO with my first and he choked and I vowed never to do it again cause it could have been tragic. I use all the above methods and have never had a sleeping issue. Also be sure that where your LO is sleeping it is a place the feel secure in and he isnt new to it. That may also cause a problem.