Ashwin Lewis
It can be distressing to see your baby crying in their sleep, but it's important to know that it's usually entirely normal. Babies cry in their sleep for a variety of reasons, such as hunger, discomfort due to teething or illness, separation anxiety, or transitioning between sleep cycles. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine and addressing any underlying issues can help soothe your baby and improve their sleep. If you're concerned about persistent crying or suspect a medical issue, it's always best to seek professional advice.
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What You'll Learn
Hunger
Babies under 4 months old often wake up hysterical in the middle of the night due to hunger. Newborns typically wake up every 2-3 hours to eat and may even need to feed more frequently. They may nurse or take a bottle between 8 and 12 times a day. As they get older, their stomachs can hold more milk, and they will start to sleep for longer stretches at a time. Most babies will sleep through the night by the time they are 9 months old.
However, even after the newborn stage, babies continue to go through developmental changes that can affect their sleep and feeding patterns. For example, around a child's first birthday, there is another sleep regression that can cause trouble with naps and nighttime sleep. Toddlers may also start resisting naps, leading to overtiredness and increased crying. Additionally, if they have become attached to a bedtime routine, such as falling asleep with a bottle or pacifier, they may wake up hysterical if that item is no longer there.
If your 13-month-old is crying in their sleep due to hunger, try to establish a daily routine and a nighttime sleep routine. Ensure that they are getting enough calories during the day and before bedtime to reduce the likelihood of waking up hungry. You can also try giving them a lovey or stuffed animal to sleep with, as they may quickly find comfort in this and settle back to sleep without fully waking up.
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Separation anxiety
During this phase, your 13-month-old may become clingy and prefer you over other family members or strangers. They may cry or have a meltdown if you try to create some distance, even if it's just moving to another room or standing up from a seated position. This behaviour is driven by their attachment to you as their primary source of comfort and security.
To help manage separation anxiety, consistency in sleep schedules and bedtime routines is key. A calming routine that includes time for connection before bed can be beneficial. You can also introduce a comfort object, such as a lovey or stuffed animal, for your 13-month-old to sleep with. These objects can provide a sense of security and help ease feelings of anxiety, improving sleep struggles like short naps and night wakings.
While it may be tempting to give in to your child's every demand during this phase, it's important to balance their needs with your own. For example, when you need to do fundamental tasks like tidying, using the toilet, or getting dressed, it's okay to let your child cry for a few minutes while you take care of yourself. You can also try to provide extra time in the morning to get ready, so your child doesn't feel rushed during transitions or separations.
Remember, this phase is a normal part of your child's development, and they will grow out of it with time and patience.
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Illness
It is common for babies to cry in their sleep, and in most cases, it is not a cause for concern. However, if your 13-month-old is crying in their sleep, it could be due to an illness.
Babies can wake up crying due to a range of illnesses, including fever, congestion, stomach ache, or discomfort from teething, a cold, or flu. More severe symptoms of illness in a baby include persistent high fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, or symptoms of an ear infection. These symptoms warrant a call to the doctor or pediatrician. Other signs that your baby might be unwell include dehydration, trouble breathing, or extreme lethargy, which require immediate medical attention.
If your baby is crying in their sleep due to illness, they will likely turn to you for comfort, no matter the time of day or night. It is important to keep the disturbance to a minimum and the atmosphere calm and peaceful, so your baby gets used to the idea that nighttime is for sleeping.
Occasional crying during sleep is usually nothing to worry about, but if you are concerned about persistent crying in longer bursts, you can contact your doctor or health visitor.
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Sleep regression
There are several reasons why a 13-month-old may cry in their sleep. Firstly, it could be due to separation anxiety, which is a normal phase of development. Toddlers may wake up crying or screaming hysterically when they realise they are alone in their crib or bed. This usually peaks around 15 to 18 months of age but can continue into toddlerhood.
Secondly, crying during sleep could be due to discomfort or pain caused by teething, illness, or food sensitivities. For example, a baby may experience pain from teething or discomfort from a cold or flu, leading to persistent crying. In such cases, it is recommended to consult a doctor to rule out any medical issues.
Additionally, sleep regression at 13 months could be related to developmental milestones. Toddlers may resist sleep as they master new skills such as walking, which they find more exciting than sleeping. They may need longer periods of awake time before they are ready to sleep again, and offering two naps a day at this age can help avoid overtiredness.
To address sleep regression, parents can provide extra comfort and reassurance during bedtime and nighttime wake-ups. It is also important to ensure adequate nourishment during the day to reduce nighttime hunger. Gentle strategies like The Shuffle can help babies learn to self-soothe. Consistency in healthy sleep habits is crucial, and parents should maintain a responsive and loving bond with their child.
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Night terrors
If your 13-month-old is experiencing night terrors, there are a few things you can do to help:
- Avoid screen time at least an hour before bed.
- Implement a consistent and relaxing bedtime routine.
- Address any areas of stress in your child's life.
- Ensure your child feels safe in their sleep environment.
- If night terrors are persistent, discuss them with your child's healthcare provider.
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