If you’re reading this at 3 am while trying to settle your little one back to sleep, know that you’re not alone. Frequent night waking is one of the most common challenges parents face.
Many parents find themselves wondering why their baby wakes so frequently during the night. While some night wakings are completely normal and necessary, especially for younger babies who need feeding, persistent two-hourly wakings can leave both parent and child exhausted.
Common Reasons for Frequent Night Waking
- Age-related sleep patterns
- Sleep associations
- Developmental milestones
- Environmental factors
- Feeding patterns
When Do Sleep Patterns Develop?
Sleep patterns evolve significantly during the first year of life. While newborns naturally wake frequently for feeds, older babies develop the ability to sleep for longer periods. However, the journey to this point varies greatly between children.
Is This Just a Phase?
While some sleep disruptions are indeed phases linked to development, persistent waking every two hours can indicate underlying sleep associations or routines that might benefit from adjustment. The key is identifying which factors are affecting your child specifically.
Need Personalised Sleep Support?
Every child’s sleep journey is unique. Book a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your child’s specific sleep challenges and discover how I can help.
Understanding and addressing frequent night waking requires a personalised approach that takes into account your child’s age, development, temperament, and family circumstances. While there are general principles that can help guide better sleep, the most effective solutions are those tailored to your specific situation.
