Illness affects sleep. The first 24-48 hours are likely to be the most affected.
Fevers, coughs, colds and even immunisations can cause our little ones to become restless and wake more frequently in the night.
We all have sleepless nights when our children are unwell. It can feel really tough at the time.
Sometimes we feel unsure on what to do and what not to do.
If your little one sleeps well on the whole it’s important not to change their sleep habits when they become unwell.
Ask yourself if the change you’re making is one you’d be happy to live with on a longer term. If the answer is no, then don’t do it in the short term.
Here are some tips to help you feel confident around managing your baby’s sleep when they are unwell.
☁️ you can provide pain relief if needed
☁️ you can use age appropriate cold/cough remedies
☁️ to help your baby breathe you can elevate one side of the cot bed. If your child is over 12 months of age you can provide a toddler pillow
☁️ you can provide extra reassurance
☁️ try not to change where your little one sleeps.
☁️ If your little one is resisting you leaving them stay with them until they are sleepy and then leave allowing them to do the last part of the settle themselves
☁️ you can camp out in their room if you’re worried about them
Remember we all have a few rough nights sleep when our children fall ill. It’s unavoidable. But it also won’t last.
If you can keep to your usual routine and settling methods you won’t have any work to do to ‘get back on track’ after your little one is feeling bright and cheerful again.
It’s cosy season and flu season.
Save this as a reminder 💜
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