We all have an internal clock, also known as a circadian rhythm, that tells us when we should be awake and when we should be asleep. This clock is mostly set by light or the sun. Our bodies feel best when we listen to our circadian rhythms and when we go to bed/wake up at the same time each day. Around 3 months, babies start to produce melatonin, a sleep hormone that relaxes them and makes them drowsy. As a child's sleep window approaches, melatonin is produced. However, if we miss our child's sleep window (ex. getting them to bed at 8-9pm when they should be going down at 7pm) instead of continuing to produce melatonin (which calms them), their body will produce cortisol. Cortisol is a stress hormone, which will give your child a second wind making him feel wired similar to drinking a shot of espresso. This is the meaning behind Dr. Marc Weissbluth's phrase "sleep begets sleep". A well-rested baby will usually sleep more than a baby who is overtired and has cortisol rushing through their bodies. This also explains why a baby will fight sleep the most when they are actually the most tired. If you want to avoid your child getting overtired, keep an eye on his sleep windows during the day and after 6pm. Examples of sleep signs include being fussy, rubbing eyes, yawning, listlessness and decreased activity. If you see these signs, it is best if you can get him down immediately. Bedtime routines can also help by allowing your child's body to unwind and prepare for sleep, which will help produce melatonin. If you have a consistent bedtime/naptime routine for your child and watch their sleep signs-getting them down before they are too tired, then you are setting yourself up for sleep coaching success!
NOTE: A typical bedtime for a 12 month old is 7pm, if they are not napping during the day then it should probably be closer to 6pm.
NOTE: A typical bedtime for a 12 month old is 7pm, if they are not napping during the day then it should probably be closer to 6pm.