Question
Our baby, now four and a half months old, has never liked to sleep. Usually, she takes a short nap between 9 am and 11 am, but from afternoon to evening, she can only sleep for 1 to 2 hours, waking up at 6 am the next morning. The rest of the time, she is either playing or being fussy, and most of the time, she is being fussy, which leaves us adults exhausted. Experts, what’s going on with our baby? Is she sick?
Answer
- Before putting your baby to sleep, make sure they are well-fed; a well-fed baby will fall asleep contentedly. Avoid playing with the baby or engaging in vigorous activities before bed to prevent them from getting too excited. Holding the baby in a quiet environment for a while can help them relax.
- Gentle rocking can help your baby fall asleep faster. Singing lullabies while rocking can enhance the effect. You can also place the baby in a crib. Be careful not to rock too vigorously as it may harm the baby’s brain.
- Playing soothing music as a bedtime soundtrack can assist your baby in falling asleep. Choose music that the baby has listened to while in the womb.
- Wrapping the baby gently with a blanket or sheet can make them feel secure and prevent them from waking up due to their limbs moving or twisting, allowing them to sleep more soundly.