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Not sleeping well in cot anymore

Posted: Wed Jul 08, 2020 9:57 am
by Guest Posts
My one year old daughter used to sleep well in her cot but for the past 3 weeks or so she just won't settle in her cot at all! As soon as she gets in she sits up crying out, it's affected both her day time nap and night time sleep, which has then obviously had a knock on to our sleep. What can we do?

Re: Not sleeping well in cot anymore

Posted: Tue Jul 14, 2020 11:23 am
by Vicki Dawson
Hi,

It is important to try to work out what your daughter's behaviour is trying to tell you, this is why we always conduct thorough assessments of cases individually. It sounds like she is probably overly tired too which can make it more difficult for youngsters to fall asleep.

Consider things like teething/illness/separating from you as possible triggers. Have there been any subtle changes? Even a change of washing powder can impact on some youngster's sleep if they have become used to a certain scent.

Getting a good nap schedule in place can help, look out for signs of tiredness before she becomes over-tired. If your daughter won't settle to nap in her cot you can try taking her in her pushchair for a walk so that she gets her nap. They key part is to get the timing of the nap into a schedule so that she is in a good routine and the nap is happening at the same time each day. You can then try the cot again once timings are established.

At night time you can try staying with her until she settles to sleep if this helps her to calm. Once she is asleep give it 5 minutes before you leave so that you don't wake her. You can then gradually move a little further away every few nights until she is able to fall asleep once again in her cot without your support.

If things aren't improving please do speak with your Health Visitor.
I hope that helps,
Vicki