Blissed Out BabiesBlissed Out Babies
As a parent in Manchester, you’ve likely been cautioned about the dangers of your toddler becoming “overtired.” The prevailing advice suggests that missing the optimal sleep window can lead to increased cortisol levels, making it harder for your child to settle and stay asleep. While there’s some truth to this, it’s essential to examine whether the fear of overtiredness may be causing more harm than good.
The concept of overtiredness posits that when children stay awake beyond their ideal sleep window, their bodies produce stress hormones like cortisol, leading to sleep disruptions. This has led many parents to enforce early bedtimes and strict nap schedules to prevent overtiredness.
However, recent discussions among sleep experts suggest that this approach might be oversimplified. Professor Helen Ball from Durham University notes that what we often label as overtiredness may actually be an emotional state, such as anxiety or distress, that hinders sleep rather than a direct result of missed sleep windows.
In an attempt to prevent overtiredness, some parents may inadvertently create new sleep challenges:
Misreading Sleep Cues: Not all signs of fussiness or restlessness indicate overtiredness. Sometimes, these behaviours can stem from other needs or discomforts.
Rather than adhering strictly to the overtiredness narrative, consider the following strategies:
Prioritise Sleep Quality: Focus on creating a conducive sleep environment and ensuring your child feels safe and comfortable, which can be more impactful than rigid schedules.
While the concept of overtiredness has its place, it’s crucial to recognise that each child is unique. Overemphasising the prevention of overtiredness can lead to unnecessary stress and potentially disrupt natural sleep patterns. By observing your child’s individual needs and maintaining a flexible approach, you can nurture healthier sleep habits.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Many parents are going through the same thing. With the right strategies and support, you can help your little one sleep more peacefully, and you’ll both wake up feeling more rested and ready for the day ahead.
If you’re looking for more support on how to handle toddler sleep challenges, check out the Taming Toddler Sleep Programme , my signature group sleep and parenting programme. I guarantee you’ll get better sleep or I’ll work with you for free until you do!
Together, we can create a sleep routine that works for your family, helping everyone get the rest they deserve.
I have always been interested in gentle parenting techniques, and as a self confessed ‘geek’ I spent many a sleepless night reading. I became so interested in infant brain development and the science of sleep that I completed my Holistic Sleep Coaching qualification, mentored by the wonderful Lyndsey Hookway. I have been working as a toddler sleep consultant since 2018, I am based in Manchester but I can work with you from anywhere in the world online!
This coupled with my experience in settling techniques, toddler negotiation strategies and analysis of naps and sleep needs gives me a wealth of knowledge to be able help you.
If you’re looking for help with making changes to your family’s sleeping habits and would like to speak to a toddler sleep consultant who is down to earth and sympathetic and will focus on you and your family with empathy and understanding then please get in touch.
I would love to hear from you!
Jem x
Click here to book a free chat with Jem to discuss sleep packages and ensure we are a good fit. There is no obligation and I will only take clients where I genuinely feel I can change their lives.
I have three simple toddler sleep support packages, Read more about them here.
Yes! You can check out my free sleep resources here.