Let’s talk about children’s red flags and sleep
I’m always honest that I’m not medically qualified and never here to give you medical advice or make a diagnosis.
It’s so important I stay within my scope of practice as a sleep consultant.
But part of my role is flagging any potential red flags that could be causing your Small discomfort and disturbing their sleep, and referring you to someone who is qualified to help you resolve them.
Because with the best will in the world if your Small is in pain, discomfort or there’s a physiological reason for their unsettled sleep, then no amount of tips or advice however responsive will resolve it!
I hope this helps you recognise some of the common red flags I see that prevent children’s sleep, and how to resolve them.
Red flags to look out for if your child isn’t sleeping
Allergies and reflux affecting sleep:
Signs of pain and discomfort
Distinctive cry
Persist crying and not settling even with support
Sleep apnoea, enlarged adenoids or sleep-disordered breathing:
Snoring
Sleeping with mouth open
Gasps or pauses in breathing at night
Two Snoring red-flag ‘FYI’s:
It’s normal to snore or breathe with their mouth open when they have a cold or are congested.
Some positions they’re more prone to sleeping with their mouth open due to gravity- for example sleeping in a more upright position in the sling or during a contact nap
Low iron:
~Restless sleep
~Constantly moving limbs at night
~Excessively sweaty head - leaves sweaty head patch on sheet
~Pale and bags under eyes
~Low energy and exhaustion
What to do if you suspect there’s a red flag with your child:
Try not to panic - I know this is hard when you are a parent! Red flags aren’t always a cause for concern
You’re your Small’s expert and know them best-if you have a niggle or instinct there’s something to explore, the first step is to check in with your GP or Health Visitor.
If available to you, body work with a qualified cranial osteopath *can* help ease tension and congestion
Keep a diary and/or take videos and photos where applicable
If you’ve ruled out red flags and are ready for some practical + actionable steps to improve your frequent wakes sign up for my FREE webinar here.
Need more support with supporting your child to fall asleep alone?
My bedtime boundaries course talks you through all the steps you need to move away from feeding, rocking or patting to sleep to your child falling asleep alone in their sleep space
And FYI there’s no talk of sleep training or leaving them to cry themselves to sleep.
