If you’re navigating the world of an infant’s sleep, you’re in the right place. I’ve been there, and I get it.
This stage is a mix of giggles and growth, but let’s be real, sleep can be a bit elusive. So, picture this as a friendly chat between parents.
We’re going to explore some easy, gentle tips to make bedtime a tad easier for your little one and for you.
No magic tricks, just a sprinkle of understanding and a dash of real-life mom wisdom that is more than just “Allow your baby to self-soothe” and such typical advise.
So, let me share some sleep training tips specifically tailored to a 10-month-old infant.
Understand the sleep Patterns of a 10-month-old
Let’s start with a gentle reminder: understanding is key. Imagine embarking on a journey without a map – a bit confusing, right? Well, navigating your baby’s sleep is a bit like that.
Understanding your 10-month-old’s sleep requirements and routine is like having that trusty map. It’s the foundation, the starting point.
When you know what to expect and what your little one needs, you’re equipped to make bedtime a smoother sail.
How much sleep for a 10-month-old
On average, your 10-month-old needs about 11 to 12 hours of nighttime sleep. Add to that around 2 to 3 hours of daytime naps. That makes a total of 13 to 15 hours of sleep.
Yep, it’s a good chunk of the day, but here’s the secret sauce: it’s crucial for their growth, development, and your sanity too.
Each baby is unique, though. Some might be early birds, and some are night owls. So, take these numbers as a cozy guideline, not a strict rule.
Typical 10-month-old sleep schedule
A typical sleep schedule for a 10-month-old can vary, but here’s a general guideline that might give you an idea:
Nighttime Sleep:
Bedtime: Around 7:00 to 8:00 PM
Night Wakings: Your baby might still wake up once or twice during the night. Some babies might sleep through the night, while others may need a feeding.
Nap Schedule:
Morning Nap: Usually around 9:00 AM, lasting 1 to 2 hours.
Afternoon Nap: Typically around 1:00 PM, lasting 1 to 2 hours.
Some 10-month-olds also take 3 naps. Flexibility is key, and it’s perfectly normal for sleep patterns to evolve as your baby grows.
Know the developmental stage
Understanding the developmental stage of your 10-month-old is like having a backstage pass to their world.
It helps you tailor your sleep training approach to their emerging skills and needs.
Knowing what they can and cannot do guides you in creating a supportive sleep environment and adjusting bedtime routines for a smoother journey to dreamland.
Can you sleep train a 10-month-old
Absolutely, you can indeed sleep train a 10-month-old! At this age, many babies have developed the wonderful ability to self-soothe, paving the way for more independent sleep.
While some little dreamers are already mastering the art of sleeping through the night, a few newfound skills like standing up can add a twist to the bedtime adventure.
Find out what works best at this age
Discovering the best sleep training method for your 10-month-old is like finding the perfect puzzle piece.
Following are my favorite methods of sleep training for babies at this age.
Ferber method:
The Ferber Method is a gentle sleep training approach created by Dr. Richard Ferber. It involves gradually increasing the time between comforting visits during nighttime awakenings.
This method helps babies learn to self-soothe and develop independent sleep habits.
When applied to a 10-month-old, it’s about fostering a secure sleep environment and gently encouraging them to doze off on their own.
Learn more about the ferber method here.
Disappearing chair method:
This one is my favorite. The Disappearing Chair Method is a gentle sleep training technique where parents gradually reduce their presence in the baby’s room over time.
Initially, the parent sits near the crib, offering comfort, and then progressively moves farther away each night.
This method aims to help babies learn to self-soothe while providing a reassuring presence. It’s a gradual process that empowers the baby to become more independent in falling asleep.
Consider teething
Ah, teething – the tiny yet mighty challenge that can throw a curveball into our sleep training game.
If your little one is in the midst of teething, it might not be the best kickoff for sleep training.
But, if you’ve already embarked on the sleep training adventure and those little teeth decide to make an entrance, no need to hit the pause button.
While teething can make our tiny humans a bit fussier, especially during the night, you’ve got options.
Try soothing techniques like chilled teething toys, a gentle massage, or even a teething-safe snack before bedtime.
Keep in mind that every baby is different, so it might take some trial and error.
Oh, and here’s a bonus: for more teething tips that complement your sleep training journey, check out my other blog post.
Have a very consistent routine and schedule
Consistency is the superhero in the world of sleep training.
Babies thrive on predictability and a consistent routine signals to them that it’s time to wind down. From a soothing bath to a cozy story, having a set bedtime routine becomes a comforting cue for your little one.
Now, let’s talk schedule. Having a consistent sleep schedule helps regulate your baby’s internal clock. Try to stick to the same bedtime and nap times daily.
(note that routine is about the pattern of activities while schedule is about the timing)
Nap schedule adjustment
First off, sync those nap timings with your nighttime sleep schedule.
A 10-month-old requires two naps a day, on average. Aim for a morning nap around 9:00 AM and an afternoon one around 1:00 PM.
But here’s the golden nugget: ensure the last nap wraps up at least 3 to 4.5 hours before bedtime.
Why? So your little one is just the right amount of tiredness for a solid night’s sleep.
Now, let’s talk duration. Keep those naps in the sweet spot of 1 to 2 hours. Longer naps may sneakily interfere with your nighttime sleep training masterpiece.
It’s all about finding that nap rhythm that harmonizes with your baby’s sleep needs.
Look for the sleep cues
Alright, let’s talk baby language – sleep cues edition! Your 10-month-old might not have a neon sign saying “I’m sleepy,” but their subtle hints are the secret code to a harmonious bedtime.
Watch out for those telltale signs: rubbing eyes, yawning, or a touch of fussiness. When you catch these sleepy signals, it’s like your baby sending you a personal invitation to the land of dreams. The key here? Respond promptly.
Here’s the thing: putting a baby down when they’re overtired can turn bedtime into a bit of a challenge. An overtired little one might struggle to settle down, leading to a fussy night. That’s why tuning in to those sleepy cues is a game-changer.
Nighttime feeding transition
While those nighttime snuggles and feeds have been precious, it’s time to empower your little one to doze off without a midnight snack.
Consider gradually reducing the amount of the nighttime feed, especially if your baby is already eating well during the day.
The goal here is to shift the association of falling asleep away from feeding.
Remember, it’s a gentle process. Trust your instincts and your baby’s cues. If you encounter a bit of resistance, no worries – it’s all part of the sleep training adventure.
This post may contain affiliate links. Full disclosure here.
Encourage independence in other matters
Beyond bedtime, let your 10-month-old spread their wings. Encourage solo play in a safe space, let those tiny hands explore snacks, and cheer on those wobbly first steps.
Building independence in various aspects of their day sets the stage for confident snoozing at night.
It’s like a little symphony of growing up.
No lovey to sleep at this age
Many folks will suggest introducing a cozy lovey to help with sleep training, but at 10 months, it’s a bit too early for the lovey party.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is on board with this too – they recommend keeping the crib clear until your little one hits the one-year mark.
Why the wait? Well, safety first.
Until they’re over a year old, it’s best to keep the crib clutter-free.
No lovey, no plush pals – just a safe, snug sleep space for your little dreamer.
Use overnight diapers at night
Pick extra-absorbent diapers for nighttime, so your baby doesn’t wake up for diaper changes.
Every time they wake up for a diaper change, that may (or may not) become a hurdle in their sleep training. Some babies become wide awake while changing.
These special overnight diapers keep them comfy, helping everyone sleep better all through the night.
From my experience, Huggies Overnight diapers are like little sleep saviors. Their extra-absorbent magic keeps my little one dry through the night, ensuring everyone gets a good night’s rest. Total game-changer!
Consider safety
Now that you are sleep training your infant, you must very keenly consider the safety of your baby.
Consider the following:
- Back to Sleep: Always place the baby on their back for sleep.
- Firm Mattress: Use a firm crib mattress.
- No Soft Bedding: Avoid soft items like pillows and blankets in the crib.
- Safe Temperature: Keep the room at a comfortable temperature.
- No Loose Items: Remove toys and loose bedding from the crib.
- No Smoking: Ensure a smoke-free environment.
- Supervised Play: Supervise during playtime to ensure safety.
- Regular Check-ups: Periodically check crib and accessories for safety.
- Follow the Pediatrician’s Advice: Consult with the pediatrician for personalized tips.
- Comfortable Clothing: Dress baby in lightweight sleep clothing.
Monitor and adjust
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all in the world of sleep training. Your baby is unique, and so is your family.
Kick off the sleep training journey, observe how your little one responds, and don’t hesitate to tweak the approach.
It’s like creating a personalized sleep symphony – go with the flow and find the rhythm that suits your baby best.
Celebrate progress, not perfection
In the realm of sleep training, it’s all about progress, not perfection. Even after your baby is sleep-trained, expect a few bumps along the way.
The sleep journey is a rollercoaster of ups and downs, so keep those expectations real and celebrate every step forward.
Embrace the progress, and remember, it’s okay if it’s not always smooth sailing.
In the tender voyage of sleep training for your 10-month-old, remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all guide.
Each baby is a unique dreamer, and every family charts its own course.
From understanding your baby’s sleep needs to embracing their budding independence, this journey is a symphony of love, patience, and discovery.
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