You may not realize that these four factors can impact your child's sleep quality!
Breastfeeding during PERIOD
During your PERIOD, a mother's milk supply may decrease (mine even drops by half...). If you're exclusively breastfeeding, you may notice your child becoming suddenly fussy before or during your PERIOD, indicating that they might not be getting enough to eat!
Recommendation: If you've started introducing solids, feed them more solids. If not, consider increasing the frequency of breastfeeding. It's also possible for your child to wake up more frequently at night during this time. Remember to replenish your blood and get enough rest after your PERIOD to boost your milk supply.
Rainy Days
On rainy days, most children tend to stay indoors, missing out on opportunities to go outside, get some fresh air, and soak up the sun. This can potentially disrupt your child's nighttime sleep!
If it rains at night, the sound of raindrops on the windows can disturb sensitive children and wake them up.
Recommendation: Engage in indoor activities that involve physical movement and perhaps play some soothing sounds to mask the noise of raindrops.
Parental Emotions
Do you think your child can't sense your emotions? Think again! Children are more perceptive than you might think. If you're anxious, they can feel it too. When adults are stressed, it's difficult for children to relax and fall asleep.
Recommendation: Moms need some "me time"! Even if it's just 15 minutes for a quick walk around the block, especially for full-time moms! It's not about being irresponsible or passing your child off to someone else. It's about moms relieving stress and finding ways to unwind! Sometimes, you'll find that just a short 15-minute break can make you more patient and gentle with your child when you return home.
If you can't leave the house, take a 10-minute hot bath or do a 5-minute meditation session before bedtime!
Of course, teaching your child to sleep on their own can save you a lot of time for "me time" as well! You'll be happier whether it's with your spouse or your child :P!
Exciting Parties
Whether it's friends from afar visiting or a birthday party, suddenly seeing many unfamiliar faces and hearing louder noises can overstimulate your child, potentially leading to poor sleep at night. This is especially true for highly sensitive children!
Recommendation: Regardless of whether the party is before or after, talk to your child and prepare them mentally to reduce the psychological stimulation.
There are many other factors that you may not be aware of that can affect your child's sleep quality! Let's be aware parents and tackle these challenges together!