Why does my baby wake up crying after sleeping for a short time?

For many parents, caring for a baby can be a stressful and anxious experience. One common issue is that babies often do not sleep soundly, waking up crying after sleeping for a short period. There are many reasons for this, such as a wet diaper, hunger, discomfort, or being startled. In such situations, parents need to provide patience and comfort to their babies.

Babies may cry during sleep due to various reasons, including hunger, a wet diaper, discomfort, excessive excitement during the day, waking up and not seeing an adult nearby, feeling insecure, etc. In such cases, parents should gently pick up the baby, pat their back, and use soothing language to comfort them and help them relax. It is also important to check for a wet diaper and change it promptly if necessary. Feeding the baby an appropriate amount of milk can also help. Typically, after being fed and feeling full, the baby will stop crying. If the baby continues to cry, parents should observe for symptoms such as fever or abdominal pain to determine the underlying cause and address it accordingly.

1. Establish a Regular Sleep Schedule from an Early Age

According to Zhang Shuying, newborns typically sleep for about 20 hours a day, but as they grow older, their sleep time gradually decreases. The first 0-3 months are a crucial period for establishing and forming good sleep habits. If a baby sleeps more during the day and less at night, parents can gradually adjust their sleep schedule by waking them up occasionally.

2. Eliminate Other Factors That Interfere with Sleep

Zhang Shuying suggests that for babies younger than one month, it is best for the mother to sleep with them. This allows the baby to reexperience the sense of security they felt in the mother's womb and helps maintain their body temperature while sleeping, reducing the risk of getting cold from kicking off the blanket.