Those wake windows can really get frustrating when you’re trying to find a new schedule that works for your child.
Parents extend wake windows for many different reasons. Some reasons could be starting daycare or school, new sleep issues arise, or nap transitions.
Regardless of the method used, transitioning to a new wake window may require effort. It is important to recognize that while some children may adjust easily, others may require anywhere from one week to a month to adapt to the change.
Here are a few ways to extend
- Every two days or so extend their awake time by 10-15 minutes until the desired wake window has been reached
- Keep them busy with child-led play
- Have them spend a lot of time outside before desired time
- Make sure they have a full feed and snacks
- Distract and keep them busy with games, crafts, anything that’s not electronics
- Go out for walks
- Exercise (we love Go Danny Go or anything similar like Brain Break)
- If they’re old enough let them do things around the house with you (certain cleaning, baking, making lunch, etc).
The concept is to keep them occupied to ensure they use up any extra time with other activities.
Finding the correct schedule is extremely important when it comes to a child’s sleep, so if you’re needing support, please schedule a call here.
