Cart
0
By Beth
Nurse & Baby Sleep Consultant
Sleep Sense™ Certified
Babies communicate when they are tired; just not with words. Long before they become overtired, they show clear cues to let parents know it’s time for a nap. One of the biggest reasons naps and bedtimes feel challenging is that these early signs are often missed or misunderstood.
Early cues may include slower movements and reduced engagement, such as zoning out or losing interest in play. As tiredness builds, babies may develop red eyebrows or eyelids, clench their fists, move more tensely, or rub their eyes or ears. While eye rubbing is commonly recognised, it is usually a later cue that sleep is needed soon.
When these signals are missed, cortisol levels can rise, making it harder for babies to fall asleep and stay asleep. Learning to spot and respond to sleepy cues early helps parents settle babies more easily, reduce bedtime struggles, and support better quality sleep for the whole family.