Why Is My Baby Waking Up So Early?
*If you want this info summarized in a more visual format, check out my FREE Early Morning Wakings Guide!
Early morning wakings are SO common. The sleep drive is so low after 4am for everyone, adults included, because our bodies are coming out of deep sleep and getting ready to start the day.
We know 4am is a crazy time to be awake, but babies don’t. We have to teach them that it’s still time to sleep. We have to teach them to fall back asleep, even in a lighter state of sleep! The good news is a lot of things can help with this early morning waking. Asses your baby’s situation and see if any of these sound familiar:
Reasons for Early Morning Wakings
Bedtime is too late. Your baby may be getting a second wind and therefore not getting into a deep enough sleep.
The room is too light. Black the room out completely! (See my favorite blackout product)
No help from a sound machine. If you don’t have one, try one! A sound machine can block out other noises that may cause early morning wakings.
Too much day sleep.
Not enough day sleep.
Not enough wake time before bed.
Waking out of habit. Feeding at this time (especially if your baby has gone all night without food before) can encourage consistent waking.
Family member waking them up. Example: Dad getting up to go to the gym at 5am.
Hunger. Only IF they aren’t getting enough food in the day. Make sure your baby is growing properly and having plenty of wet diapers. This is why we establish 6 feedings from the beginning! If your baby is getting enough food and is older than 3 months, it likely isn’t hunger.
Regression/leap. Regressions are signs that your baby is developing normally. Stay consistent with good sleep habits and it will pass!
How to Make Adjustments for Later Morning Wakings
First, if any of the above need to be adjusted in your baby’s schedule, do it and give it AT LEAST a full week. I repeat: give it at least one full week. Change takes time to get used to — even for babies. Don’t give up before giving the new plan a solid try!
Second, treat it like a night waking. Minimize social interaction to teach baby it’s still time to sleep.
Third, you can apply the modified cry it out outlined in the e-book if other adjustments aren’t helping.
Remember, it will get better! Make changes where you need to and stay as consistent as you can.