POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 5 m old boy8 months agoA. Frequent waking in a 14-month-old baby can be challenging and may occur due to several reasons, such as teething, hunger, separation anxiety, or changes in their routine. Here’s how to address the issue:
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1. Identify the Cause
Teething: Check for swollen gums, drooling, or irritability. Teething discomfort often disrupts sleep.
Hunger: Growth spurts might make the baby hungrier at night. Ensure they have a filling dinner and a milk feed before bedtime.
Separation Anxiety: Around this age, babies might wake up seeking comfort. A consistent bedtime routine helps.
Discomfort: Check for wet diapers, cold/heat, or any signs of illness.
Overtiredness: If the baby isn’t napping well during the day, they may wake up more frequently at night.
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2. Tips to Improve Sleep
Bedtime Routine
Establish a consistent bedtime routine (e.g., bath, story, lullaby).
Put the baby to bed at the same time every night to set their internal clock.
Comfort Measures
If teething, offer a chilled teething toy or apply a pediatric teething gel (after consulting a doctor).
Dress the baby in comfortable clothing and keep the room temperature moderate.
Nighttime Feeding
Ensure they eat a balanced dinner, including carbohydrates and protein, which keep them full longer.
If still breastfeeding or formula-feeding, a small milk feed before bed may help.
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3. Gradual Sleep Training
When they wake up, avoid picking them up immediately. Instead, soothe them with gentle pats or a calming voice.
Gradually reduce how much you intervene so they learn to self-soothe.
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4. Daytime Adjustments
Ensure your baby gets enough daytime naps (14-month-olds need about 2-3 hours of naps).
Give them plenty of physical activity during the day to tire them out naturally.
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5. Consult a Doctor if Needed
If the waking persists or is accompanied by signs of illness (e.g., fever, cold, ear pulling), consult a pediatrician to rule out medical issues such as ear infections or digestive discomfort.
With patience and consistency, your baby's sleep pattern should improve.
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