I'm sure most of you are aware that the majority of babies and toddlers are not the world’s greatest sleepers. This can either be the case from the moment they are born, or it can be something that develops over time.
Here are a few common questions that parents often have when it comes to sleep, or lack of:
- Do some children just not need much sleep?
This might well be the case in a small selection of children, although it is more likely that they just get used to not having much sleep - in the same way that parents survive on very little shut-eye. But is this fair? Shouldn’t we provide them with opportunities to sleep as much as possible? I certainly think so.
Having a good routine during the day and providing plenty of opportunities for naps, or even just 'downtime' for older children, is a really good way of encouraging and nurturing a good sleeper. It’s true what they say – the more they sleep, the better they sleep.
- My baby used to be a great sleeper, what happened?
Some babies start off as great sleepers and then something happens. This could be that they become more aware of their surroundings (perhaps they don't want to miss out on the fun?), or it could be because they are going through a regression. If this is the case, chances are with a little time and patience all will be well again.
- Will a poor sleeper always be a poor sleeper?
Not at all. There are lots of things we can do to encourage our little ones to sleep, and more importantly sleep well. It’s just a matter of finding out (perhaps by a little trial and error) and being consistent with what works for you and your family.
- Is a good sleeper born that way?
Honestly, I’m a little on the fence about it, and I do think the nature vs nurture debate could apply to sleep.
I have looked after many children who came into the world as champion sleepers. It could be luck of the draw - maybe their personality and easygoing nature has something to do with it - but there is a school of thought that says it's down to genetics. My gut, however, says a large part of it is down to environmental factors, such as:
- Position in the family - in my experience, firstborn children often sleep better than their younger siblings.
- How they were delivered might well be a factor.
- A strong daytime routine can positively impact sleeping habits.
- Where they sleep - with parents or on their own.
Whatever the reason, if you have a 'good sleeper', be grateful. Although don’t get complacent - as any parent knows, things with kids (and sleep) can change as often as the Irish weather. If you have a 'bad sleeper', odds are you can change this.
Niamh O’Reilly is a sleep coach. She's also a baby and childcare guru, a 'parent nanny' and the answer to many a weary parent's woes. When it comes to baby and child issues, Niamh is your woman. Always on hand to offer a no-nonsense solution, in an approachable way. A regular in the Irish media, (most recently as TV3’s Late Lunch Show's 'parent nanny') over the next while at HerFamily.ie, Niamh will share some of her experiences, helping you attain that ‘holy grail’ – nights of uninterrupted sleep for all of the family.
Niamh's book, No Fuss Baby & Toddler Sleep, is now available to buy from all good book stores or online from Amazon.com. 
