Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Suggested for you
Dal Water (Dal Ka Pani) for Babies - Benefits & Recipe
The moment your baby reaches an age where he can start having solids, you will receive a ton of advice. However, the one suggestion that seems to resound from nearly every source is dal pani - the water you get from dal that has the taste but not as much of the nutrition. Many parents choose to mash some dal along with the water and feed it to the baby. Balancing this with other items is just as necessary for the baby's health.
Why Give Toor/Moong Dal Water to Baby?
Moong dal pani for babies is a suggestion that has trickled down from generations, and there is a pretty good reason for it. The benefits a baby receives from it are numerous, and they are essential for your baby.
Dal pani is easy to digest, making it the perfect first food for your child.
The abundance of proteins, vitamins and minerals in dal pani is highly beneficial to the baby, even more so if the baby is given some mashed dal with it.
Going for yellow moong dal is a better choice since the chances of allergies are minimal.
Numerous trace elements like zinc, iron, manganese present in dal pani benefit the growth of the baby and help in strengthening the immunity.
When to Start Dal Water for Babies
Dal ka pani for a 6-month-old baby is the usual way to go for most parents, as this is the age where babies start to consume solids. However, the right age for it depends on why the parent wants to feed the baby dal pani in the first place. While some prefer to make it an accompaniment to breast milk, others choose to feed dal pani as a way to wean the baby off milk. Nevertheless, the age of 6-8 months is ideal; you can even start feeding your baby dal pani at the age of one year.
Nutritional Value of Dal Water (Per Serving)
In a single serving of a cup of dal pani, the nutritional elements are distributed as follows.
Nutrition
Quantity
Energy
130 cal
Carbohydrates
22.4 g
Protein
9.1 g
Fibre
3.1 g
Fat
0.5 g
Vitamin A
18.3 mcg
Vitamin B9
52.3 mg
Niacin
0.9 mg
Riboflavin
0.1 mg
Thiamine
0.2 mg
Zinc
1 mg
Sodium
10.2 mg
Phosphorous
1.7 mg
Potassium
429 mg
Magnesium
41.4 mg
Iron
1.5 mg
Calcium
28 mg
How to Prepare Dal Ka Pani for Infants
Preparing lentil soup for babies is a pretty straightforward process. Ensure that all the utensils you use for preparation and serving the soup are sterilised and free of any external substances.
Ingredients Required
Ghee
Turmeric powder
Water
Yellow moong dal, split
Procedure
Wash and clean the dal and put in the cooker along with turmeric powder, water and ghee. Let it cook in the pressure cooker for 5 whistles or so, in order to make it soft.
Use a strainer to separate the mixture and get the water alone. Depending on how your child reacts to the taste, choose to add a tiny pinch of sugar, only for the initial servings.
Before giving it to the baby, check the temperature of the water on your wrist to make sure it isn’t too hot.
Once he starts having it regularly and reaches the 10-month mark, you can make the dal pani thicker. To adjust the consistency and make it less thick, add boiled water to the mix.
Tips to Remember While Giving Dal Water to Infants
Before giving dal ka pani to a 4-month-old baby and above, there are a bunch of tips you can adhere to, in order to make sure that the baby does not have any adjustment problems.
Do not put the dal pani in a sippy cup or bottle for the baby.
Let your baby sit up straight with some support and then give him the dal pani.
If the dal pani causes gas in the baby, add a pinch of hing to the water.
As your baby grows up, you can introduce other variants of the dal as well.
Avoid adding salt in the pani to enhance the taste till he is at least one year old.
If you are wondering if this is the right time to introduce your baby to solids like dal pani, here are some ways to know your baby is ready:
He can hold his head up when he is made to sit.
Your baby is showing interest in food that is presented on the dining table.
Your baby can make movements with his tongue.
Your baby is able to open his mouth wide for food to go in.
Dal pani is a great preparation that works for most babies and is a great way to introduce them to the world of solids. The bland taste of it can be good for their sensitive tongues. Gradually, he will start liking the changes in the taste and will be open to eating a thicker version of the dal pani as well.
Resources and References: Parents
Also Read: Rice Water for Infants Read more
Suggested for you
Effective Ways to Train Your Baby for Self Soothing
Self-soothing is an ideal technique which not only helps your child to get into the habit of settling himself to sleep but also gets you a quality sleep. Teaching your child to self-soothe will prove a blessing for you, as you won't have to wake up whenever your child is awake. You can start training your child to sleep through various techniques before they start getting absolutely dependent on you for their sleep patterns.
Video: Effective Ways To Train Your Baby to Self Soothe
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEKbbcovOP4
What is Self Soothing?
Simply put, self-soothing is a skill that allows babies to comfort themselves to sleep without crying or having comforted by a parent or caregiver. Newborns expect to be comforted before sleep by means such as cuddling, rocking, or patting, and if not given the due attention they tend to cry. Teaching your nbaby self-soothing techniques can help him sleep without being attended to constantly.
What Does It Involve?
Self-soothing involves various actions that help a baby comfort himself. Some of the techniques involved in self-soothing are listed below:
Using parts of the body, such as hands, fingers, mouth, and face
Sucking the thumb or pacifier
Holding their hands together
Gently rubbing their eyes
Sucking a toy or blanket
Touch and vibration based soothing technique
Rocking your baby in your arms
Gently stroking his hair
Humming or singing a lullaby
Self-exploration
Under this technique of self-exploration, you just let your baby be creative and allow him to explore acts or movements that are comfortable for him.
When Should You Teach Your Baby to Self-Soothe?
There is no specific age for teaching babies to self-soothe, as experts have different opinions on this. However, it is obvious that babies cannot self-soothe themselves for the first 3 months. They can be trained this skill after 6 months. Usually, the time frame between 4 and 7 months is considered the best time to prepare a baby to self-soothe. Find out when you should teach them to self-soothe.
1. Newborns
Self-soothing is a skill baby needs to sleep on their own—newborns are not born with it. Their brains are not developed enough to manage their emotions and that's why they need parental aid to calm them down through singing, hugging, holding, rocking, or feeding. So, for the first 3 months, they rely on you.
2. After 4 months
By this point, their brain becomes capable of regulating their emotions to an extent, and their sleep pattern also matures. Hence, their dependency level on you for getting a sound sleep lessens. However, self-soothing should not be misunderstood for complete self-reliance for sleeping, as they are still too young.
Benefits of Self-Soothing for Infants
Self-soothing is an ability which helps babies to sleep faster on their own and is beneficial in the long run. Some of the benefits of self-soothing are mentioned below:
1. Babies Sleep Better and Longer
Research seconds the fact that the babies who can self-soothe themselves sleep at night, better and longer. Moreover, they can also easily fall back to sleep independently even if they wake up in the middle of the night.
2. Encourages Self-reliance in Babies
Self-soothing encourages self-reliance, as babies learn to sleep all by themselves. These little skills taught at an early age also boosts their confidence. They are welcome to changes and are self-motivated.
3. Gives More Time to the Mother
Teaching the skill of self-soothing to your baby is beneficial for you as well. Once your child learns how to self-soothe, he won't be crying fits seeking to be comforted. But, it doesn't mean that your baby will not cry anymore, as it’s the only way he can communicate to you when in discomfort.
4. Helpful in the Long Run
Infants who have learned the skill of self-soothing tend to manage their tantrums as they grow older. They become less fussy and know how to handle things when their parents are not home.
How to Teach Your Child to Self Soothe?
Much like learning other skills, there are several self-soothing baby sleep methods to train your baby that you should know of.
1. Broaden your Mindset
This involves changing your mindset or perception about the need to comfort your baby to put him to sleep all the time. It is true that as a parent you cannot see your child in pain. But, it may not really be necessary for you to tend to them immediately when they cry, as by doing this you encourage the bad habit of relying on you. Of course, initially, they need your nursing to fall asleep. But, after some time you can train them to self-soothe. For this, you need to believe that they are capable of doing so on their own.
2. Set a Routine
Developing a routine for your baby's day-to-day activities is really crucial. It's easy to get a baby accustomed to a set pattern at an early age. It also prepares them to expect the next in line activity on the list. For example, if you follow the sequence of bathtime, naptime, snack time, and playtime, then you must follow it regularly. Unexpected activities might induce anxiety in your baby. On the contrary, consistency makes your child less anxious because they know what's coming next, including sleep time too.
Observe your baby's daily routine; for example, how long he sleeps, how many times he eats and so on, and chalk down the routine accordingly. If he doesn’t sleep at the same time during the day then make sure that you ensure that his bedtime is consistent.
3. Do Not Comfort your Baby Too Soon
Give your baby a chance to self-soothe. Instead of picking him up as soon as he starts crying, wait for some time. Try to distract him with some funny activity or leave him on its own for few minutes. If the crying doesn't stop, it is a sign of uneasiness or hunger; then you should pick him up. Listening to trivial complains and cries of a child will only spoil him. So, you better be careful.
4. Lay Your Baby on the Bed When Drowsy
Don't put your baby to bed when he is fast asleep, else they will continue to rely on you for their sleep. Instead, put him on the bed when he is a little drowsy and half-awake. This will help him sleep without you being around.
5. Stop Feeding your Baby to Sleep
Many parents make the mistake of feeding their baby to sleep. What they don't realise is that they are drifting them away from self-soothing. Stop feeding them before putting them to bed to help them overcome the habit of relying on milk to sleep whenever they wake up crying.
Knowing how to help your baby to self-soothe can help you at least begin a trial run for the same. So, here is the trail that you must refer.
6. The Eight-Day Trial
Days 1-4:
Get a blanket or toy for your baby which pleases him. Train him to use it as a soother.
Days 5-7:
Allow your child to get accustomed to this new pattern. He will start showing a strong attachment to the blanket or toy, and then you can start using it to soothe your child to sleep at night. Even, when he wakes up crying from his sleep, use the blanket or a toy to calm him down instead of soothing him the usual way. Have patience, since your baby is still learning and it might be a little challenging in the beginning.
Day 8:
By the last day of the trial, your baby will be relatively ready to self-soothe himself. On the last day, don't provide the blanket or toy in his hands, instead, keep either of the two things in the crib. If he wakes up crying, give him a couple of minutes; he is likely to use that toy to soothe himself.
7. Gentle Baby Self-Soothing
You can start training your baby from the age of 3-4 months to 1 year old, depending on the baby. Since self-soothing requires patience, we recommend you to start the gentle way.
Start by putting your baby down from fast asleep to half asleep, then gradually progress towards putting him down when drowsy then less drowsy and finally when awake.
The key to success here is to have patience and progress gradually. Once you follow it through, your baby would finally be able to adapt to new situations and will learn to settle himself down to sleep without needing you near them all the time.
Tips to Make a Baby Self-Soothe
There are several tricks you can use to train your baby to self-soothe. Check them out and see what works for you.
1. A Crib with Musical Toy
Music is a great soother for people of all ages. You can get a musical crib with a toy attached to it which plays soothing melodies, inducing your baby to sleep.
2. Consistent Bedtime
Having a consistent bedtime trains the brain of babies to fall asleep at a particular time. Try moving your baby's bedtime a little ahead if he feels uncomfortable at his usual sleeping time.
3. Maintain a Relaxed Night Routine
A nighttime routine prepares him to fall asleep peacefully. You can initiate such a routine by giving a bath, reading a story, or humming a lullaby. The lights in the room should be dim; this will enable your baby to fall asleep even if he wakes up at odd hours in the night.
4. Use Proper Soothing Toys
Crib safety guidelines recommend that you choose soothing and harmless toys to put in your child's crib. For babies below 8 months old, it is suggested to tie the toy to their crib, which they can feel, smell, and sense, but can't pull closer and end up getting entangled. For babies above 8 months, you can just drop the toy in their crib.
Do's and Dont's
Here are certain dos and don’t during the process of training your baby to self-soothe.
1. Have Patience
You need to give enough time and chance to your baby to self-soothe. Every baby grows and learns differently, so don't rush to pick him up as soon as he starts crying. Give your baby a minute or two to calm down on his own.
2. Bedtime and Feeding Time Should Differ
You are not helping your baby to learn to self-soothe if you are feeding your baby to sleep. As a corrective measure, shift his bedtime away from feeding time.
3. Stop Encouraging Dependency
It is difficult for your baby to learn self-soothing if you are consistently comforting them by rocking, hugging, patting, etc. Give them their space to explore their own ways to self-soothe and kiss them goodnight and leave them to settle themselves.
What If Your Newborn Doesn’t Self-Soothe?
Most babies can easily learn to self-soothe, but some babies don’t get around it even after training. Consistency and patience is what you will need here.
Also, there's no best method to teach your baby to self-soothe. It is best to go with your gut feeling and try any soothing method which you believe will work out.
What If Your Baby Can't Sleep Without Nursing?
In this case, your baby is too reliant on your nursing. To help him grow out of this habit, push the feeding time much earlier than their bedtime or reduce the duration of feeding during sleep.
Some Essential Guidelines to Remember
A baby capable of self-soothing can be left when awake to sleep on their own.
Don't feel frustrated if your baby does not learn to self-soothe upon the completion of the eight-day trial method.
Practice a new skill with your baby before they can start getting a hold of it on their own.
Use only gentle ways to train your baby. Opt for a combination of progressive techniques and exercise to train them to self-soothe. Remember, simply putting your baby down might not be sufficient for him to learn.
Apply these simple methods and tips to train your baby to self-soothe. This will help your baby not only to sleep but also to avoid situations such as separation anxiety or frustration and will teach your child to grow on its own.
Also Read: A Guide To Swaddling A Baby Read more
Suggested for you
8 Common Newborn Baby Reflexes
Newborn babies can exercise very little control over their bodies. Nature, therefore, equips them with certain survival skills. One of these is reflex. Baby reflexes at birth can be defined as involuntary actions and movements, performed by babies either as part of a usual activity or as a response to external stimuli. These necessary reflexes can cause babies to twitch, kick and jerk seemingly without warning or visible reason, and to some may appear abnormal. However, they are no cause for worry as they indicate that the baby’s brain and nervous system are developing normally. Most of these reflexes are temporary and will disappear as the baby grows.
Which Reflexes Should Be Present In Your Newborn Baby?
Given below are the newborn reflexes list with names and some details of common infant reflexes found in newborn babies.
1. Root Reflex
Root reflex is a basic survival instinct that helps the baby to latch on to the mother's breast and feed. This reflex is very helpful for nursing moms.
How to Check?
Upon stroking the side of the cheek, the baby will turn his head in the direction of the touch and open his mouth to feed.
When does it go?
This reflex only remains for the first four months.
2. Moro Reflex
The Moro Reflex is also known as the startle reflex as it occurs when the baby is startled.
How to Check?
In response to a loud sound or disturbance, the baby will throw its head back, stretch out its arms and legs, cry and then withdraw its arms and legs.
When does it go?
This reflex only remains for the first two months.
3. Tonic Neck Reflex
Tonic neck reflex is when the baby responds by stretching his hands when his neck is turned to one direction, there is no known explanation for this reflex.
How to Check?
Gently turn the baby’s head to one side and observe that they will stretch out their hands on the same side and bend the opposite arm from the elbow.
When does it go?
This reflex only remains for the first four to five months.
4. Righting Reflex
Righting reflex is a precautionary reflex and is a natural way for the baby to protect itself.
How to Check?
Drop a blanket over the baby’s head while it is sleeping. You will observe that the baby will shake its head, hands and legs till the blanket falls off.
When does it go?
This reflex only remains for the first year till the muscles have matured to exercise sufficient control.
5. Withdrawal Reflex
Withdrawal reflex is another precautionary reflex and is a natural way for the baby to avoid colliding with any object.
How to Check?
When your baby is sitting, suddenly move your face close to his, you will notice that the baby will turn his head away. He would do the same if an object suddenly moves closer to him.
When does it go?
This reflex will remain for life.
6. Tongue Thrust Reflex
Again a precautionary reflex and is a natural way for the baby to avoid choking on food or swallowing a small object.
How to Check?
Gently touch a small spoon to the tip of the baby’s tongue. You will observe that the baby will push it back out.
When does it go?
This reflex will remain the first four to six months.
7. Grasp Reflex
Grasp Reflex is the baby’s way of holding on to its mother.
How to Check?
Gently rub the baby’s open palm with your finger, and it will immediately grasp your finger.
When does it go?
This reflex will gradually go after the third month.
8. Stepping Reflex
The baby’s attempt at walking is known as the stepping reflex.
How to Check?
Hold the baby in the air with his legs dangling and then gently bring him down till its feet begin to touch the floor, you will notice that the baby will put one foot forward as if trying to walk.
When does it go?
This reflex will remain for the first two months.
As mentioned earlier in this article, reflexes are natural in newborn babies and are a sign that the baby is developing normally, these awkward reflexes will disappear with time.
Also Read: Dehydration In Babies - Symptoms, Causes & Prevention Read more
Suggested for you
Stranger Danger! 8 Ways You Can Save Your Child's Life
Strangers lurk everywhere. They are in your child's school, the neighbourhood park, the supermarket parking lot when you are getting your bags. What if some of these strangers have dangerous intentions for your child? With instances of child abuse increasing every day, we need to teach our kids to keep themselves safe. For try as we do, we cannot be them all the time.
The following tips are often overlooked and may even come across as odd. But trust us, in desperate times such as these, we can't do enough to keep our kids safe. Learning about and applying these safety measures is the best way to keep stranger danger far away from our precious darlings!
1. Select a code-word that only the family knows
Want to send someone to pick up your child from school when you cannot make it? Is there a danger you want to warn them about but there are suspicious people around? Just use the code-word! This can be anything – simple but not too common – that only your inner circle knows. How about "sunshine fairies", for example?
2. Teach your child to seek help from a mom with children
What if, God forbid, your child is stuck in a dangerous situation and there's no policeman nearby? Teach your child to seek out a mom with kids of her own and ask for her help. Chances are that a mom will be compassionate and helpful toward your child and see them out of danger.
3. Don't write your child's name on everything she owns
“Hi Pooja. Your Mom asked me to bring you home today.” Little Pooja looks up at this smiling man and goes along happily. After all, if he knows her name, he must be speaking the truth!
This scenario is more common than we know. Personalizing all your child's stuff – tiffin-boxes, backpacks, water bottles- makes it easier for criminals to connect to them. If the school has any such demands for identification purposes, speak to them about this. Consider using child safety products such as a child location tracker if there is long travel involved.
4. Teach your kids these simple alarm signals and messages
“Where's my Mom and Dad?”
“I don't know you!”
“Leave me alone!”
“Who are you?”
These expressions cause alarm in passers-by and surrounding people, alerting them to the possible risk your child is in. Explain to your child that anyone he doesn't recognize is a stranger until Mom and Dad introduce them. And when they come across a stranger who tries to act too friendly, these expressions are what they must use. There may be a few awkward situations at first, but better safe than sorry!
4. They shouldn't approach strangers in cars at any cost
Lollies, gifts, sugar candy - nothing at all should compel your kids to approach strangers in cars. Make it very clear to your children that they should call out for you if anyone tries to pull them in or offer them a lift. If they are being followed, they should run in the opposite direction as that will buy them some time while the car turns around.
5. No strangers should be let into the house without asking Mom and Dad
Scary as it sounds, stranger danger can strike at home too! Ideally, don't let your child answer the door alone. Always accompany them till they are old enough to understand and recognize people. Also teach them that Mom and Dad need to first check if this person is a stranger or someone who is a friend, based on which they will be allowed or denied entry. Installing child safety locks on the doors and windows is a good idea.
6. Tell them to forget all manners if a stranger creates trouble
Loud screaming, banging doors and windows, flaying arms about wildly, crying – everything is perfectly fine when a stranger is doing anything to them that they find objectionable or painful. Being destructive around a criminal is the fastest way to get attention and be rescued.
7. Make your kids memorize these safe zones to run to when in danger
School
Friend's house
Police Stations
Shop
Crowded Area
The above are places to go to when in danger. Tell your kids that if they feel unsafe and can't find you, they should run to one of these places and stay there till you find them. They can give your phone number and address to a safe person such as a policeman or a shop owner or their friend's mom.
Some of the above tips may come across as paranoid. In fact, it is likely that you will never have to actually implement them.
But hey, on the off chance that danger strikes one day, it is always better to be as prepared as we can. Our kids are the reason we live and anything for them, right? Read more
Suggested for you
Door and Hinges: Safety Measures for Your Toddler
Taking care of an active toddler can be very challenging. More activities mean more vulnerability. Getting hurt from doors and hinges can be dangerous and can even cause permanent damage sometimes. Thus, it is vital for parents to take certain safety measures.
Toddlers are more prone to getting their fingers jammed in doors or hinges, as they are always exploring and do not understand what things have the potential to hurt them. A severe accident could get a child’s finger fractured, crushed or even completely amputated. Children from 1 year to 2 years of age are more prone to these accidents due to their minimal knowledge and excessive curiosity. Older children are a bit more careful and can be easily asked to stay away from harm’s way. However, to be on the safer side, when there is a toddler in the house, parents should take certain safety measures.
Preventive Measures for Child’s Safety from Door & Hinges
Finger protection strips are an ideal preventive measure for your active baby. Children are mostly injured by the hinge side of the door rather than the handle side of it. These strips don’t spoil the beauty of your home and can be easily installed. They also don’t alter the functioning of doors. You can also advise the organisers of your child’s day care center, preschool or classroom to have these on their doors. Finger protection strips are available in two sizes - small ones which are 200 mm wide, for doors that open 90 degrees, and large ones which are 250 mm wide, for doors that open 180 degrees.
2. Before you close doors, make sure that your child’s fingers are nowhere near. These include regular doors and even car doors.
3. Children often have a habit of keeping their hands on car windows. Before you close them, make sure your child’s fingers aren’t placed there. Also, ask your child to not to play with the doors or slam them.
4. Teach your child to keep his fingers away from the hinge sides of the doors.
5. Door guards are good for your kid’s protection.
6. Attach door stoppers and make sure to use them. This prevents doors from slamming all of a sudden.
7. You could place a hook-and-eye latch on your door. This prevents them from slamming suddenly as well.
8. Drape a thick cloth on top of doors so that they can never close without your assistance.
Taking these precautions can help a great deal in keeping your child from getting injured. Make arrangements for his safety beforehand and let him happily enjoy exploring the house and other surroundings. Read more
Suggested for you
2 Year (24 Month) Old Sleep Regression – Causes, Signs and How to Manage
Sleep, a crucial part of growth and development in children, can occasionally become a source of concern for many parents, especially when sleep regressions hit. As a parent of a toddler, you might be familiar with sleep regression stages and may have recently found yourself struggling with the dreaded 24-month sleep regression. This article provides a comprehensive look at the two year sleep regression—what it is, why it happens, its signs, duration, and how to manage it effectively.
What Is The 2 Year Old Sleep Regression?
Two year sleep regression refers to a phase in a toddler’s life when they suddenly have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or refuse to sleep entirely. This period can be frustrating for parents, mainly if their child had previously had a healthy sleeping pattern. Although every child is unique, sleep regression at this age is quite common and, unfortunately, a natural part of a toddler’s development.
What Are the Causes of 2 Year Sleep Regression?
Many factors contribute to the 24 month sleep regression. Let’s explore the eight common causes:
1. Developmental Milestones
Toddlers at this age are going through major physical and cognitive advancements which can disrupt their sleep.
2. Separation Anxiety
They might experience separation anxiety which peaks around this age, leading to sleep disturbances.
3. Increased Independence
With their newly discovered autonomy, they often resist bedtime, wanting to explore more.
4. Nighttime Fears
Two-year-olds begin to develop imaginations, leading to fear of the dark, monsters, and nightmares.
5. Disruption in Routine
Any changes in their daily routine can lead to sleep regression.
6. Toilet Training
If you are potty training, nighttime accidents or the need to go can disrupt their sleep.
7. Teething
Molars often come in around this age, causing discomfort and interrupting sleep.
8. Testing Boundaries
Toddlers may refuse to sleep as a way of asserting control and testing boundaries.
Signs of 2 Year Old Sleep Regression in Your Toddler
The 2 year sleep regression symptoms can vary from child to child. However, there are six signs to watch out for:
Frequent Night Waking: If your toddler is waking up frequently during the night, it could be a sign.
Difficulty Falling Asleep: If they suddenly struggle to fall asleep, it may indicate regression.
Shorter Naps or Skipping Naps: Changes in nap duration or avoidance can be a symptom.
Early Rising: Waking up unusually early is another indicator.
Increased Irritability: Mood changes, such as heightened irritability due to lack of sleep, is a sign.
Resistance to Bedtime: If your toddler fights or resists going to bed, it’s a significant symptom.
How Long Does Two Year Sleep Regression Last?
The duration of the two year sleep regression varies from one child to another, but typically it lasts between two to six weeks. It’s important to remember that this is a temporary phase and won’t last forever, even though it might feel like an eternity when you’re in the midst of it. The period of sleep regression can depend on several factors, including the child’s overall health, their daily routines, and how these sleep issues are being managed by parents. While some toddlers might breeze through this phase within a couple of weeks, others might take a bit longer. However, if this phase extends beyond six weeks, it may be a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a sleep specialist.
How Can You Manage 24 Month Sleep Regression In Your Baby?
Parenting a toddler comes with its unique set of challenges, and managing sleep regression is certainly one of them. As a parent, you might feel overwhelmed when your previously good sleeper suddenly starts having disruptions during their sleep time. It’s important to remember, however, that this is a natural phase of your child’s development and with patience and some practical strategies, you can help them overcome this period. Here are eight effective 2 year sleep regression tips to help you navigate through this challenging time:
1. Maintain Consistent Sleep and Nap Routines
Consistency is key when dealing with a 24 month sleep regression. Try to keep your toddler’s sleep and nap times as regular as possible. This consistency helps to regulate their internal body clock, making it easier for them to know when it’s time to sleep.
2. Provide Comfort and Reassurance
During this phase, your toddler may feel anxious or scared. It’s crucial to provide comfort and reassurance, especially at bedtime. Whether it’s a comforting cuddle, reading their favorite book, or simply talking to them softly, these actions can help your toddler feel safe and secure, promoting better sleep.
3. Offer a Security Object
A security object such as a teddy bear, a soft blanket, or a favorite toy can help soothe your toddler, especially when they wake up during the night. These objects can provide a sense of safety and familiarity, helping your child settle back into sleep more easily.
4. Encourage Independence
While it’s important to provide comfort, it’s equally essential to encourage your child’s independence. Teach them self-soothing skills that will help them settle back to sleep on their own when they wake up at night. This might include finding their pacifier, turning on a soft nightlight, or hugging their security object.
5. Limit Screen Time
Excessive screen time, especially before bedtime, can interfere with your toddler’s sleep. The blue light emitted by screens can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Try to ensure your child has at least an hour of screen-free time before bed.
6. Create a Conducive Sleep Environment
A good sleep environment is essential for anyone, and toddlers are no exception. The room should be dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Consider using blackout curtains, white noise machines, or a fan to create an ideal sleep setting.
7. Communicate the Importance of Sleep
While your two-year-old may not fully understand the concept of sleep, it’s never too early to start teaching them. Explain in simple, age-appropriate terms why sleep is important. Make bedtime seem enjoyable rather than a chore.
8. Practice Patience and Consistency
Last but not least, remember to stay patient and consistent. Sleep regression can be a testing time for parents, but remember, it is a phase and will pass. Avoid resorting to old habits that you’ve moved away from (like rocking to sleep) just to get through the regression. Stick to your routines and the new sleep skills you are teaching.
When to Call A Doctor?
Although sleep regression in 2 year olds is typically normal, if it persists beyond six weeks, or if your child is displaying signs of illness, distress, or a significant behavior change, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional.
FAQs
1. Do All Babies Have 24 Month Sleep Regression?
Not necessarily, each child is unique and may not experience all the sleep regression ages. 2 years is a common time, but it can vary.
2. Is The 2 Year Sleep Regression A Myth?
No, the 2 year sleep regression is not a myth. Many toddlers experience disruptions in their sleep patterns around this age due to various developmental and psychological changes.
3. Is It Normal If My 2 Year Old Never Had Sleep Regression?
Yes, it’s perfectly normal. Not all toddlers experience the 2-year sleep regression.
4. Does The 24 Month Sleep Regression Affect Naps?
Yes, one common sign of 2-year sleep regression is a sudden resistance to naps or shorter naps.
Lastly, remember the 2 year sleep regression, or any sleep regression ages 2 years, is a challenging time not just for the toddlers, but for parents too. Keeping patience, staying consistent, and using “2 year sleep regression cry it out” sparingly can help you navigate this stage more comfortably.
Also Read:
How To Get Toddler To Sleep At Night
How To Make Toddler To Sleep Alone
How Many Hours of Sleep Do Children Need?
Read more
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
4 hours ago
Q. hi have one question
LT 10x18mm and RT 18x20mm and ET 6.5
what it mean??? and should I start intercourse
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
3 hours ago
A. since you are right follicle is 18 mm yes of course you can start with your intercourse for conception as in 1 to 2 days
their maybe rupture of the follicle by which your sperm should be present there for conception
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
why baby vomit
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. for babies less than 6 months may not be a problem. small babies will be having lot of gas because of various reasons it is advisable to do burping of the baby immediately after feeding please give colimex DF drops to the baby they are safe
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
3 hours ago
Q. i am 35 weeks 3 days pregnant... my ultrasound report shows that "fl and hl are shorter compared to bpd"... is this anything to worry
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. I cannot assist you on that because other things are also associated with the particular particular report so I think it’s better that once a gynaecologist is available she’s going to take up your query and she will be able to give you a better clarity as per the situation
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. I am 9 week pregnant and I have runny nose very badly can I use cetirizine tablet?
Abhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. Please do not take any medicine without consulting with your gynaecologist. It is advisable to get yourself evaluated by a doctor and follow doctors advise properly. You can also book online doctor’s appointment on FirstCry where the doctor can help you and guide you properly.
Thanks and take care
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
2 hours ago
Q. hi,
my LT 10x18mm and RT 18x20mm and ET 6.5 , what if I intercourse after 2 days, can I do intercourse in ovulation day can become a pregent .
on ovulation day if we intercourse can become a pregent..pls advice..
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. Actually on the ovulation time only you can conceive so yes if things are right with you you can go ahead with the conception but with what the details you have mentioned it would be better to have a discussion with your gynaecologist prior to you proceed to your ovulation and conception
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. Hlw dr its my 6th month pregnency can i intimate with my partner
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
1 hour ago
A. Hello dear! If your pregnancy is going on fine without any high risk factors then it’s okay. Still, would advise you to check with your doctor once before going further. Maintain a good personal hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle
Check out this new Memory
vinit kumar
Father of a 10 m old girl
New Memory
#stylishbaby
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Roopa sharma
Mom of a 3 yr 6 m old girl
1 min ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Surbhi
Mom of a 9 m old girl
2 mins ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Roopa sharma
Mom of a 3 yr 6 m old girl
3 mins ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Surbhi
Mom of a 9 m old girl
3 mins ago
#kidno1
0 Likes
0 Comment
Tell us more about yourself get More Personalised
- Infant0 to 6 Months
- Baby6 Months to 2 Yrs
- Toddler2 to 4 yrs
- Kids4-6 yrs
- Big Kids6+ yrs
- Expecting
- Trying to Conceive