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The Siren
Thursday, September 23, 2010 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
Those of you who have been reading this blog (thank you!) know that occassionally I get up before the munchkin, getting out for a morning stroll with my two pups. Before the kiddo, my morning stroll was a ritual. It kept me sane. After the kiddo, sleep is a precious commodity. Some things have to give.
During the warm summer days, getting up before daybreak has more incentive. It's warm, and the time before daybreak is simply glorious. As we say good-bye to summer here in the Midwest, I recently managed to get in one more early morning trek.
I was in my glory. I was thinking, "A little lost sleep for this time is worth it." As I was on my way back down the street, I passed the home of some other young folks who happen to have a little guy themselves. Their house was still dark. Then, I heard it. The "siren." You know, that sound that comes from your little one; it starts low and slowly builds into a full-fledged cry. It can be the most startling alarm clock there is. Usually, there is no pushing the snooze button. Or, is there?
We all know how important sleep is for your little one's growth and development:
www.planningfamily.com/blog/sleeping-like-a-baby/
www.planningfamily.com/blog/sleep/
www.planningfamily.com/blog/three-in-the-bed/
How do you get your little one back to sleep when that siren sounds a little too early? Here are a few strategies to try. Let me know how it goes and what is working (or not working
) for you!
*Keep it quiet and dark. When you hear your little siren, enter quietly and keep the lights off. Can't see what you're doing? Not to worry, your eyes WILL adjust to the darkness. Try it!
*Don't immediately lift your little one up. Try a soothing touch instead. Sometimes what works best is to simply and gently lay your hand on your infant or young toddler's back.
*"Shhhh." I'm a fan of the "shhhh" sound. Why? Well, because it got me a few more minutes sleep from time to time! Don't use words. Sometimes quiet sounds will help soothe, comfort, and hopefully, lull your child back to sleep.
And when all else fails? Well, do what works for your baby. In addition to the above, yes, there were times I nursed, rocked, and even just tried to enjoy a moment of snuggles and smiles with a kiddo who was up WAY before mama was ready to rise and shine. Of course, later that day, you would also find me with another cup of coffee or two! LOL.
P.S. Want one more good reason why it's important to try to get your munchkin enough sleep? Check out this NPR article I recently stumbled across: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=129636783. Interesting "food for thought."
