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Daytime naps

Submitted by Miffy77 on Fri, 06/06/2008 - 15:09.

 

Question:

I'm sure I have asked similar questions in the past but my 6 month old keeps changing! He is generally sleeping from 630 pm to 6-630am. He has previously been a catnapper but now is doing 2 x 1 1/2 hour sleeps and is a lot happier. The problem now is that I think he is in a transition from 3 to 2 naps, but he doesn't quite sleep long enough or late enough in the arvo to be happy until bedtime. He is staying awake for almost 3 hours between naps. He won't sleep in the pram anymore, so I do errands in the arvo and take the long way home to try and get a 20 minute kip in the car. I have followed your 'example of a day' which fits in with us but how can I get the 2 naps happily? I am finding we are doing naps and feeds at about the same time each day. Could I try extending his awake time a few minutes each day so that his naps are spaced out a bit more? By the way he is loving his fruit and vegies. Is it time to add meat? Also does the intro of solids increase their flatulence?

Thanks for any advice

Catriona's Response:

Hi again

Well nice to hear things are going well and he is enjoying his food! Yes, they are ever changing these little people!! It is about 'trial and error'or as a mum said to me once, 'no Triona, it is trial and terror'!!

Around 6 months starting meat is important to assist with healthy iron stores. Iron is important for growth and development and a healthy immune system! Flatulence can occur as, fruit and vegetables are a great source of fibre, which in turn, keeps  the bowels nice and active! In regard to solids it is good to keep your baby moving on various foods now and start offering a dessert after lunch ad dinner.

The day sleeps sound good. Trying to get a power nap in in the afternoon should see your little guy much happier! It only has to be 20-30 minutes to make all the difference! In regard to settling him during the day, be guided by his tired signs. You can try to stretch awake time, but be careful he doesn't become overtired and then he will be harder to settle.

Days sleeps usually remain 2 + power nap until he is 12-15 months. Stretching him may just do the trick? It sounds like you are doing a great job, keep going. He will let you know if it is not working!!

 



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