Sick and sleep

"Sick" and "babies" are a duo nobody likes, but the reality is babies are kind of little magnets to anything that makes them feel under the weather. Whether you have a baby who was not a great sleeper to begin with or one who was on the path to becoming a great sleeper, getting sick can disrupt their sleep. In these situations, it's important to prioritise their health and well-being.

When your baby is sick, it's perfectly fine to hit the pause button on any sleep training or sleep routine you were following. They need extra tender loving care during this time, and that means providing them with your presence and comforting touch. Focus on providing them the comfort they need and give yourself permission to deviate from your usual sleep strategies.

It's important to remember that taking a break due to illness does not undo any progress you have made in your baby's sleep training and once your baby starts feeling better, you can resume. If sleep was a struggle even before they fell sick, know that I can help you establish healthy sleep habits once they are fully recovered. The most important thing during your baby's illness is to offer them the extra care and attention they need. Rest assured that you can address sleep challenges once they are feeling better.

What to know when it comes to sleep and your baby being sick

Sometimes they'll sleep more

When they're sick, it's important to prioritise rest and provide them with ample opportunities to sleep. While it's common for babies to sleep longer than usual when they are unwell, they may also experience multiple wake-ups during naps and nights due to discomfort or other symptoms.

While you want your baby to rest, it's equally crucial to ensure they stay hydrated and receive regular feeds. Adequate hydration and nutrition are essential for their recover!

Keep bedtime routine consistent

Even in the midst of sickness, it's important to maintain your baby's bedtime routine as much as possible. Bedtime routines serve as a signal to your baby that sleep is approaching and can help create a sense of comfort and security, even when they don't feel well. Following the usual sequence of activities, can provide a sense of familiarity and help them feel more grounded during times of illness.

Keep their sleep environment the same

Instead of taking them out of their sleep space, go into theirs. I know this may seem difficult for you to shift yourself to another room, but what's important is that you're still near them and their sleep environment is still the same. Even for us, when we feel unwell our bed is the only place we want to be - that's the same with your baby.

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Night wakings may occur

If your baby is not consuming enough fluids or feeds during the day, it is normal for them to wake up at night for a feed. Calorie intake is spread out over a 24-hour period, so if they haven't consumed enough during the day, they may require extra feeds during the night.

When your baby has been vomiting or experiencing increased bowel movements, it can result in a loss of fluids and nutrients. In such cases, you may need to take the initiative to offer night feeds to ensure they stay hydrated and receive the necessary nutrition.

Bring bedtime earlier

If your baby has not had sufficient sleep during the day, it is perfectly acceptable to adjust their bedtime earlier to compensate for the lack of sleep. Bringing bedtime forward by 30 to 60 minutes can help make up for the sleep deficit and ensure they get the rest they need.

By shifting bedtime earlier, you provide an opportunity for your baby to catch up on the sleep they missed during the day. Bedtime can be as early as 6:30 pm or even 6 pm.

Comfort them to sleep

If your baby knows how to independently fall asleep, it's perfectly fine to provide extra reassurance and help them settle to sleep. If you need to rock them, stroke their face, or pat their bum until they fall asleep, go ahead. Your soothing actions can provide comfort and aid in their ability to relax and sleep better when they're feeling unwell.

My baby isn't sick anymore, how do I get their sleep solid again?

I had a solid sleeper before they were sick

When your baby is feeling better, it's time to dive right back into it. If you have been following my 4 - 24 month sleep plan, you can simply return to the steps outlined in the plan's "Process" section.

Reestablishing consistency and sticking to the routine that was working well for your baby before their illness can help them readjust and get back on track with their sleep patterns.

I never had a good sleeper before they were sick

If you have been experiencing difficulties with your baby's sleep even before they became sick, my optional one-on-one support plans can offer you the guidance and assistance necessary to help your baby achieve solid naps and nights. By implementing these plans and establishing a strong sleep foundation, you can minimise disruptions even when your baby is unwell in the future.

Written by Alexandra Selekos I'm the founder of Babee Dreams, a certified sleep consultant and a mum of three. My approach is based on studies, training through The Sleep Consulting Academy, successful outcomes experienced by those who have used my methods and the instincts of a mother. My approach will help your baby achieve their best sleep, whilst always feeling reassured, loved and never neglected.