My 10 month old daughter has started waking up at night every couple hours. The only way i can get her back to sleep is through rocking or holding her. I can't keep doing this, i'm going crazy. She used to be a great sleeper. What can i do?
Thanks so much for all the advice. Well my husband and i decicded that we may have to let her cry it out. When her brother was her age i was easily tricked into rocking him and letting him sleep with us. With ellie we didn't want to make that mistake again. I don't know what is making her sleep eratic but today she stood up without support and attempted a step, so maybe she was restless before that milestone. Last night she slept from 10pm until 5am and i was so elated. I hope we don't have to let her cry it out, but that will be our last resort.
You all are making me sad. Let her cry? ,she is only 10months old and believe me they grow up so fast. I would comfort her. I alway thought that the well being of my babies was first, that they felt loved, cared and safe. If I was lying in a bed crying, I would be so sad and hurt if the ones who loved me just ignored me.
Carsynn mom of 2 girls 14 and 9, who are happy, independent and well adjusted. And did not cry it out.
My daughter that is now 14 months did the same thing a couple of months ago. After about a week of her waking up every night, when she had been sleeping through the night, I noticed she had two new teeth coming in. Once they were all the way in she went back to sleeping all night. Hopefully it will be the same for you!
Kara
Wait it out. Often children that are getting ready to reach a big milestone (crawling, walking, growth spurt) will show unusual sleeping habits until they reach that milestone. And at 10 months old, your little girl and her brain are getting ready to do some really big things. You may also notice that she wants to eat more table food at each meal and eat more often - she's getting to the age where she will be transitioning into toddlerhood from babyhood, and that transition is a huge one! This is just the way her brain and body are getting ready for talking, eating table foods only, walking, and so many other things!
Its perfectly normal, and I bet you will find that many other mothers have experienced this with their children at your daughters age. So give her some time, and continue holding and rocking her. If she was a good sleeper before, then I wouldnt worry so much about it - soon enough, she will return to her old sleeping habits. If she doesnt have a lovie yet like a special animal or blankie, consider giving her one too.
Good luck!
They say that 1 out of 3 children have sleep problems. My granddaughter had problems sleeping and I put her on a magnetic sleep pad and that was 6 years ago she sleeps well every night. She loves it. If you are interested in learning more check out www.nikken.com/ninamarie check out sleep.
Have a great weekend. N.
advice for Mom and S. C just let her cry. Me my Husband ans Son huddleld together as my daughter cried herself to sleep for about a week. Finaslly she slept on her own with out shedding a tear. We just had to wear her down and let her know we loved her but were not going to sleep with her. If the crying goes on for more than 15 minutes go in and offer comforting words then go back out of the room. Be firm.
L.
S.,
I'm right there with you. I think it is a combo of developmental milestones, teething and having a new babysitter. I'm exhausted. I'm hoping this phase passes quickly.
:-)T.
Dear S.,
She will continue to wake up as long as you rock her. If nothing is wrong, and if she is dry, then let her cry. Talk softly to her as you examine her, and continue telling her that it is sleeping time for you and for Mommy too. 'I am not going to rock you now. I love you - here is your (favorite toy) and I am going back to my bed. Night night.'
Then you disappear - let her cry and tell anyonthat it is being disturbed that you are trying a new way to get her to understand that it is night time, and to stay in bed and sleep. Unless something is bothering her physically, then feel at peace as much as you can. The way things are going now the problem will probably not resolve itself. So you can try this way for now. Give it a good try - a week or so - anyway. I know that this is not what you want to do, but it is o.k. and will work. It makes the baby - who already adores you - trust you even more. I know that sounds crazy, but it isn't. Babies are smarter than we realize.
One thing about babies is that they need to learn to comfort themselves. Just like we do when we lay down to sleep. Get our pillow just right, and the covers just so and in our favorite sleeping position. They have to learn to lay down and wait for sleep too.
Good Luck, C. N.
