Bad napper

[ii_butterflies@hotmail.com]

I need advice/help! My 10 week old daughter is the worst napper! This is my second child, so I thought it would be easier since I'm much more laid back and I know what to expect. She does have acid reflux, but for the most part, I really don't think that this has much to do with the napping. I try to put her in the crib most of the time, but sometimes I give up and use the swing (and this approach is hit or miss). Once in a great while, she'll take a 2-3 hour nap (usually in the swing) but typically they are between 35-45 minutes (if I'm lucky). I have a toddler who I feel like I'm ignoring because I'm constantly trying to get my baby to nap. IT's not like she's not tired, because she is...plus, when it takes quite a while to get her to sleep!! At night, once she fully falls asleep, she'll go between 4-6 hours at a time, but it takes between 1-3 hours to get her to sleep. I swaddle her which is a must, because she will not sleep without it and we use a 'nuk'. It's so frustrating and exhausting!!! Any suggestions??? We do let her cry once in a while, but ONLY if it's a gentle cry and only for 1-2 minutes...I just don't feel comfortable letting her cry it out at this age. THanks so much!!

[cay8099]

Perhaps some white noise of some kind would help your DD nap better or fall to sleep easier. This is a comfort for many babies; it makes them feel secure. It could also be that maybe she is ready to stay up a little more through the day. Maybe laying her on the floor on a blanket to interact with her will help spend some of the energy she is using to stay awake, and she will go to sleep easier. If your oldest is willing and able to interact with the baby this is a great way for the siblings to bond as well.

[craftyashley]

I would also try making the room where she sleeps (in a crib!) to be as dark as possible. I agree with Cay, get a white noise machine. And, as always, read Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child.

[MommaC]

I'm with the other two! I agree that it's too early for crying it out, and I do bow to "Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child". Be patient. Give it (and yourself) time. Don't stress too much about "neglecting" your toddler. Realize that this is just a season...eventually the baby will nap well, and your focus can shift back to your firstborn. In the meantime, just make the most of the time you do have with your "big kid". Good luck to you!

[ii_butterflies@hotmail.com]

I appreciate the advice...I will definately look into that book. We do use a "womb" sound that plays continuously through naps/night. Thanks for the support and I'm praying that this will soon get better! She's so sweet when she is awake and I do keep her up for about 1 hour - 1 1/2 hours in between the 'cat naps' but if it goes any longer, she goes crazy and screams SO loud because she is over tired. I just wish she could tell me what is wrong :) Thank you again!!