You’ve read the books, asked your friends, tried all the tips… but your baby is still struggling to sleep.
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If this sounds familiar, it’s more common than you think—and it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. In fact, many well-meaning parents unintentionally fall into habits that can make sleep harder for their little ones.
The good news? With a few small shifts, better sleep is absolutely possible.
As a baby sleep consultant, I work with families every day to identify what’s holding their baby’s sleep back—and guide them toward restful, independent sleep without harsh methods. Today, I’m breaking down the top five mistakes that may be keeping your baby (and you!) awake.
1. Inconsistent Bedtime Routine
Why it’s a problem:
Babies thrive on consistency. When bedtime feels different every night—whether it’s the timing, the activities, or the environment—it can be harder for their brains to recognize that it’s time to wind down.
The fix:
Create a short, predictable routine each night. It can be as simple as feeding, bath, pajamas, book, snuggles, then bed. Doing the same steps in the same order helps cue your baby’s brain and body that it’s time to sleep.
2. Skipping Naps to “Make Them Tired”
Why it’s a problem:
It’s a common myth that keeping your baby awake longer will help them sleep better at night. But overtired babies actually struggle more to fall asleep—and often wake more frequently overnight.
The fix:
Watch for your baby’s sleep cues (yawning, rubbing eyes, zoning out), and aim to get them down before they become overtired. Age-appropriate wake windows are key!
3. Overreliance on Sleep Props
Why it’s a problem:
If your baby always falls asleep being rocked, fed, or held, they may struggle to connect sleep cycles on their own when they wake during the night.
The fix:
Start practicing putting baby down awake when possible. This builds their ability to fall asleep independently—and makes it easier for them to resettle without needing the same support every time they wake.
4. Missing Sleepy Cues
Why it’s a problem:
It’s easy to miss the subtle signs that your baby is ready for sleep—and once they pass that window, they may become wired, cranky, or fussy.
The fix:
Learn your baby’s unique signs of tiredness and act quickly. Even 15 minutes can make a big difference in preventing overtiredness.
5. Responding Too Quickly at Night
Why it’s a problem:
Not every noise or movement at night means your baby needs help. They may be stirring between sleep cycles—and if we rush in, we might wake them fully.
The fix:
Pause and observe for a moment. If your baby is just shifting or making noise in light sleep, they may fall back asleep on their own without needing intervention.
You’re Not Alone—and You Don’t Have to Guess
These mistakes are incredibly common, and many parents I work with have experienced all of them at some point. The important thing is that you’re learning what your baby needs—and taking steps toward better rest for everyone.
If you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to start, I can help. Together, we can gently guide your baby toward better sleep without leaving them to cry alone or ignoring your instincts.
Let’s work together to bring peaceful nights (and rested mornings) back into your home.
Ready for a plan that actually works?
Book a free discovery call today or send me a DM on Instagram. Better sleep is possible—with support.
