#asktheexpert Good morning mam . I have twin baby. My son is almost 15 months old. He is not sleeping well in night. He wake up in every 1-5 or 2 hours and started crying . Everytime i need to feed him. Please tell what to do for hus better sleep.

Question

#asktheexpert Good morning mam . I have twin baby.  My son is almost 15 months old. He is not sleeping well in night. He wake up in every 1-5 or 2 hours and started crying . Everytime i need to feed him. Please tell what to do for hus better sleep.

Accepted Answer

It sounds like your son is going through a phase of disrupted sleep, which is common at around 15 months. Babies at this age can experience changes in their sleep patterns due to developmental milestones, teething, or separation anxiety. Here are a few strategies that might help improve his sleep:

1. Create a Consistent Bedtime Routine:

Establish a calming and predictable bedtime routine. This could include activities like a warm bath, a quiet story, or some cuddling to signal that it's time to sleep.

Make sure the environment is conducive to sleep—keep the room dimly lit, cool, and quiet, with minimal distractions.

2. Comfortable Sleep Environment:

Check for any discomforts such as room temperature, beddings, or clothing. Ensure the mattress and sheets are comfortable, and consider using a white noise machine or a fan to mask outside noises that might disturb his sleep.

Make sure his sleepwear is not too tight or too loose, as this can cause discomfort, especially during teething.

3. Check for Teething:

Teething can cause pain that disrupts sleep. If you suspect teething, you can try giving him a teething ring or gently rubbing his gums with a clean finger. Over-the-counter remedies like paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used to relieve pain, but consult your pediatrician first before using them.

4. Ensure He Is Comfortable and Full:

Ensure that he's going to bed after a full feed and not feeling hungry or thirsty during the night. Sometimes, offering a small snack before bedtime can help.

If he is waking due to discomfort, such as wet diapers, try changing him right before bed or using overnight diapers that provide more absorbency.

5. Self-Soothe Techniques:

Try to allow him to self-soothe when he wakes up at night. If he wakes up crying, give him a few minutes to see if he can fall back asleep on his own. Gradually reduce the level of intervention each time he wakes up. This will help him learn to fall back asleep without needing your assistance.

6. Limit Daytime Naps:

Make sure that his daytime naps are not too long or too late in the day, as this can interfere with his nighttime sleep. Generally, at 15 months, one nap in the afternoon lasting around 1-2 hours is ideal.

7. Comfort and Reassurance:

Since separation anxiety can start at this age, try offering comforting words or gentle pats on the back when he wakes up crying. This helps him feel secure.

8. Consult with a Pediatrician:

If the sleep disturbances persist or you notice signs of discomfort (e.g., frequent waking, fever, or signs of illness), it's a good idea to consult a pediatrician. They can help rule out any underlying conditions, such as ear infections, reflux, or other medical issues that might be affecting his sleep.

By being patient and consistent with these strategies, your son's sleep patterns should gradually improve. However, always check with your pediatrician if you're concerned about his health or sleep patterns.