This blog provides tips on “how to recognise tired signs in babies and toddlers”, it follows on from our blog on “how to recognise tired signs in newborn babies." 
Playing Detective
Paying attention to tired signs will help you get your baby or toddler to sleep more easily. Over time you will learn when your baby is getting tired and when to start preparing them for sleep.
Yawning
Yawning is a good indicator that your baby is tired. However, once they get mobile it becomes more difficult to spot the tired sign. Your baby could be out of sight when that first yawn appears and by the time you see the next yawn, they’re already past it and over tired. Maybe you missed the eye rubbing and first 5 yawns as they were rolling around on their play mat or commando crawling.
More Clues
Signs that baby is tired:
- rubbing eyes
- clumsiness
- clinginess and demands for constant attention
- grizzling or grumpiness
- refusing to eat or fussy with food
- yawning
- crying
- thumb/finger sucking
- resting head/snuggling
- boredom with toys
- not breastfeeding/bottle feeding well
- ear pulling
Tips for 3-6 Month Old
A 3-6 month old that has been awake for over 2 hours without any tired signs, should begin their bedtime routine. This is a rough guide for this age group. If your baby wakes up crying after less than 40 minutes (one sleep cycle) then they might be overtired. Perhaps you missed the tired signs earlier.
Tips for 6-12 Month Old
A 6-12 month old baby will most likely be overtired after 2-3 hours awake. So make sure you factor in the time it takes to bring baby to their safe sleep space, draw the curtains and put them in their baby sleeping bag.
Tips for 12 – 24 Month Old
A toddler will get overtired if they miss out on their morning or afternoon sleeps. Your toddler will be tired if he stays up past his usual bedtime. Many parents are concerned about their little ones dropping sleeps after the age of one. Most importantly it’s good to remember in particular at this age, that sleep promotes sleep. Therefore, good day sleeps will often translate into a good night’s sleep. Also remember that your child is now going through some big development leaps like crawling and walking, and this can impact sleep.
Consistency
The key is consistency with the nap and bedtime routines and by now you’ll be an expert at recognising those tired signs. Try to develop some cues that your baby will recognise to send them off to sleep. A good bed time routine I used with my kids when they were babies was:
- to take them to their room
- draw the curtains
- put on their baby sleeping bag
- read a book
- settle them in their cot.
Getting The Timing Right
Recognising your baby’s tired signs can prevent you from trying to settle a baby who isn’t ready for a nap. Would you want to go to sleep if you weren’t ready yet? Just remember that these sleep stages are a guide only. You’re the best person to decide on your own child’s needs. Talk to a health care professional if you have any concerns about your child’s sleep, health or well-being. When they are finally asleep – enjoy watching their beautiful, peaceful faces and remind yourself that you’re doing an amazing job!