#asktheexpert Hi
I have an 11 month old baby boy. I am concerned about his routine he likes to wake up by morning 10:30 or 11 o'clock in the morning so eventually his first meal is finished by 11:30. I know this is very late for this age of baby his weight is good he is active and playful as well. I want to know if this late routine can impact my baby.

Question

#asktheexpert Hi 
I have an 11 month old baby boy. I am concerned about his routine he likes to wake up by morning 10:30 or 11 o'clock in the morning so eventually his first meal is finished by 11:30. I know this is very late for this age of baby his weight is good he is active and playful as well. I want to know if this late routine can impact my baby.

Accepted Answer

It’s not uncommon for babies, especially during the first year, to have irregular sleep patterns. However, if your 11-month-old baby consistently wakes up at 10:30 or 11 a.m., it might be an indication of a routine that has shifted due to various factors such as the timing of naps or how late he is going to bed. Here are a few things you can consider:

1. Bedtime Timing: Late Bedtime: If your baby is going to bed later than usual, this can push the wake-up time later as well. Try gradually adjusting the bedtime to an earlier hour (e.g., 7-8 p.m.), which can help him wake up earlier and keep a more consistent routine. Evening Routine: Ensure that there is a calming bedtime routine that can help signal to your baby that it's time to sleep, such as dimming lights, soothing sounds, or a warm bath. 2. Daytime Naps: Nap Duration and Timing: Consider whether your baby is napping too late in the afternoon, which might interfere with an early bedtime. Aim for two naps during the day, with the last nap ending at least 3-4 hours before bedtime. 3. Feeding Schedule: If you're breastfeeding or formula-feeding, try to ensure that the feeding schedule is consistent, as babies often wake up at similar times based on their hunger. 4. Sleep Environment: Make sure the sleep environment is conducive to good rest. Keep the room dark, quiet, and cool, and avoid stimulating activities before bed. 5. Sleep Training: If you're looking to establish a more structured routine, sleep training methods like "Ferber method" or "Chair method" may help. These methods guide babies towards learning self-soothing and falling asleep at a consistent time. 6. Consulting a Pediatrician: If you’ve tried to adjust the routine without success, or if you’re concerned about other underlying issues (e.g., discomfort, growth concerns), discussing it with your pediatrician can help ensure your baby is following an appropriate sleep schedule for his developmental needs.

By gradually adjusting your baby's routine and bedtime, you may see a shift in his wake-up time, bringing more consistency to his day and improving both his sleep and yours.