Sleep deprivation with a baby? Here’s how to survive!
Hey there, tired parent!
Let me guess - your eyes are about to close as you read this and your fifth cup of coffee is within reach. Welcome to the club! As a new parent myself, I know exactly how you feel. That adorable baby of yours is amazing, but boy oh boy, is that sleep deprivation...
The hard truth
Let’s face it: those first few months are HARD. Your baby is about as interested in sleeping through the night as a toddler is in sprouts. Every two to three hours, that alarm (read: baby cry) goes off. And there you are, again, at 3am.
But don't worry! Here are my top survival tips:
1. Become a sleep ninja
Forget that old advice of “sleep when the baby sleeps.” Seriously? When are you supposed to shower, eat, or watch Netflix? No, get strategic! Make a schedule with your partner. For example, you feed until 2am, partner takes over until 6am. BAM – you just scored a 4-hour sleep block!
2. Create your own zombie-proof environment
- Put night lights everywhere. You don't want to stub your toe at 3am and wake up the whole neighbourhood.
- Prepare feedings BEFORE going to bed.
- Keep clean diapers, onesies and wipes within reach. Trust me, your half-asleep brain will thank you!
3. Accept help (and ask for it!)
You are not a superhero (even though it may seem like it sometimes). If Grandma offers to babysit for an afternoon - DO IT! If a friend asks if she can run errands for you - YES PLEASE! This is not a time to be modest.
4. The power of power naps
15-20 minutes. That's all you need for a quick recharge. Any longer than 30 minutes and you'll wake up feeling more confused than when you went to bed. Set that timer and get laid!
5. Move (yes, really!)
I can hear you thinking, “Exercise? I can barely stand up!” But trust me—even a short stroll with the stroller can do wonders. Fresh air + exercise = natural energy boost.
The reality check
This is temporary. Really. Even though it feels like an eternity now - in a few months you'll laugh about it. Okay, maybe not right away, but in a year or two or three... 😉
The bottom line
You are doing great! You really are. Your little one is growing, developing and has no idea how much coffee you need to get through the day. And that is okay!
So the next time you find yourself rocking your baby at 4am, remember: you are not alone. Thousands of other parents are rocking, humming and dreaming of their beds at the same time.
Keep going, superhero! ⭐
PS If you fell asleep reading this blog - mission accomplished! Every minute of sleep counts! 😴