Got an Expert Cat Napper?

Ah, the infamous cat nap—those brief, blissful 30 to 45 minutes of shut-eye that seem to wrap up just as quickly as they begin! If you’ve got a little one who loves to take these speedy naps, you’re definitely not alone. Many little ones seem to thrive on this kind of power napping in their early months, but if you’ve noticed that your little one is becoming a pro at cat napping, it might be time to consider whether it’s actually helping or hindering their day.

The Cat Nap Conundrum

While cat naps can be normal baby behaviour, they can also take a toll on some little ones. A series of short naps throughout the day can lead to cranky afternoons and restless nights. You might find yourself wishing for those long, luxurious snoozes that you hear about from other parents. So, how can you encourage your expert cat napper to stretch out those naps and embrace a longer, more restful sleep?

Tips for Longer Naps

1. Feed Before the Nap: Ensure your little one is well-fed before nap time. A satisfied tummy can make all the difference in helping them settle down and drift off into a deeper sleep.
2. Create a Daily Flow: Establishing a basic flow to the day can provide your little one with a sense of security and help signal that it's time for a snooze. Consistency is key, so try to follow a similar flow each day.
3. Perfect the Sleep Environment: A good sleep environment is crucial for longer naps. Keep the room dim and quiet, and don’t forget to use white noise! It can be like a soothing lullaby that can help your little one drift off into dreamland.
4. Implement Simple Bedtime Routines: Having a consistent bedtime routine can help signal to your little one that it’s time to wind down. Whether it’s a quick cuddle, a story, or a lullaby, find what works for you and stick with it!
5. Encourage Cot or Bassinet Sleeping: Help your little one learn to fall asleep in their cot or bassinet rather than relying on being rocked or fed to sleep. This can help them develop a positive sleep association and make it easier for them to transition into longer naps.

Let’s Chat!

If longer naps seem to be more of a dream than a reality right now, don’t fret! Remember, every little one is unique, and finding what works for you may take some trial and error. So hang in there, parents! With a little patience and the right approach, those cat naps can turn into dreamy, long snoozes in no time.

It takes a village, and I’m here to help you navigate the wonderful (but sometimes wobbly) world of baby sleep!

Andie xx

‍