#asktheexpert he is waking up 5 6 times in night...please suggest what to do in this case

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It can be quite exhausting when a one-year-old wakes up frequently during the night, but it’s a common issue many parents face at this stage. At around 12-18 months, babies can experience disruptions in their sleep due to various factors like teething, separation anxiety, or developmental milestones. Here are some suggestions that may help:

1. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine: Babies thrive on routine, so try to establish a calm, predictable bedtime routine that signals to your baby it's time for sleep. This could include a warm bath, a bedtime story, and a lullaby or gentle rocking.

2. Check for Discomfort: Sometimes, frequent night wakings are due to discomfort. Make sure your baby isn't too hot or cold, check for teething pain, or ensure that their diaper is dry and they’re comfortable.

3. Gradual Sleep Training: If your baby is waking up often for comfort or a feeding, you might try gradually reducing the time spent feeding or rocking them back to sleep. Allowing them to self-soothe (gradually) can help them learn to fall asleep independently.

4. Offer a Comfort Item: You can introduce a soft blanket or stuffed animal that can provide comfort during the night. This might help them feel secure enough to go back to sleep without needing you to pick them up.

5. Address Possible Nightmares or Anxiety: At this age, babies may also experience separation anxiety or have nightmares that wake them up. Providing a calming presence and comfort when they wake up can help.

6. Monitor Naps and Daytime Schedule: Make sure that your baby isn’t napping too late in the day, as it could affect their ability to sleep soundly at night. A consistent daytime schedule helps regulate nighttime sleep.

If the night wakings persist or you feel concerned, it might be helpful to consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues, such as ear infections or other discomforts, that could be causing the frequent wake-ups.