Signs of an Overtired Child & Tips to Help Them Sleep

You know your body is telling you ‘Yes’, but your mind is telling you ‘Nah, not now. I’m too tired.’

Sounds familiar? Especially after a super long day when you have finally hit the bed?

It is actually pretty common to feel that way. Experiencing the ‘too tired to sleep’ moments is a normal part of adult life.

Wait. Not just adult life. But kiddie life too!

Yep, even your kids can get too tired to fall asleep sometimes.

And you know what? They will definitely show signs that that is the case. All you have got to do is to watch out for those tell-tale signs. Try to pick up cues, you know. So you can step in and be their mighty saviour again! Which is basically us saying that you can help them :p

Bad jokes aside, we have covered all the bases regarding an overtired child. So keep reading!

Overtired child symptoms: what you need to watch out for

Remember the 4 Cs of diamonds? You know the whole colour, cut, clarity and carat funda? Yep, that is the one. Just like that, an overtired child’s symptoms can also be categorised into 4 Cs.

1. Cheerfulness

Almost too cheerful. Maybe even kind of really silly! Sure, their hyperactive antics with a touch of goofiness will warm your heart, but watch out. Could it be that your child is overtired? If they have had a long day and they are still having a case of the zoomies at the end of it, chances are that is not a simple burst of energy. It is a surefire sign that they are quite maxed out. Especially if they are quite calm otherwise.

2. Crankiness

Uh-oh! Here comes the crankiness. From bursting into tears to just sourly pouting at everything you say or do, this sign is not going to be a pleasant one by a long shot. But at least you will know what these rapid mood swings are all about. More so if they occur super close to nap time. That said, this symptom is more of a toddler thing than for an older child, but an older child could also behave this way when they are tired beyond their limits. Don’t worry, though. We will also tell you how to calm an overtired child. You will see!

3. Clinginess

This one can easily turn into one of those quintessential ‘aww’ moments. Picture your baby coming up to you and just laying their precious little head in your lap, just asking for cuddles. Cute as a button, right? But again, if it is too close to bedtime, it is time to scoop your tiny one up and put them to bed. Why? Because they are very, very tired just about now.

4. Clumsiness

Oops! Was that your baby who just knocked over that glass of water? Well, losing coordination or what can be referred to as ‘being klutzy’ out of nowhere is another sign that your tiny tyke or princess has had enough of this long day. So much so that they cannot help but trip in exhaustion as they make their way to their bed.

Read More – Sleep Training Tips for Infants

What to do when the baby is overtired?

You can help! In several ways, too. There are quite a few hacks to help you deal with an overtired baby in a way that works. We think you should try out the ones we have listed before you. Give them an honest shot. They will help.

1. Limit noise

And your child’s exposure to any other external stimulant that is likely to get them hyper. You want them to calm down now, so things like turning off the TV should be pretty high on your agenda. As the visuals and noise decrease, so will their hyperactivity. A wave of calm will start taking over them, helping them get ready for bedtime.

2. Turn down the lights

And turn on the white noise. White noise is supposed to be inherently calming. Science backs it. Just put it on your phone or speakers and let the sound get your child into a mellow mood. And if white noise is not to your baby’s taste, you can play any calming track that can relax your tiny tot and make them want to nestle in.

3. Get them to do something relaxing

Another pretty effective trick in the playbook of ‘how to deal with an overtired baby’. This one specifically works well when your kid throws a tantrum about going to bed despite being beyond tired. So to soothe them and make them feel they can have their, let them do something calming on their own. Like reading a book. Or colouring a drawing. Any least intense, non-screen-based activity will do. As long as it gets them into Zen mode, all ready for bed. P.S. This works well too when they are tired, but bedtime is still a little while away.

4. Make up for lost Zzzs

Did your child sleep late last night? Perhaps they missed their daily nap? Maybe they slept poorly? Whatever the case may be, you need to make up for the Zzzs they did not get, as they are bound to be overtired at this point. Let them take a nap when they are tired, even if it is not their usual time to. You can even put them to bed earlier than usual. That should do the trick.

5. Call it a day

It is officially bedtime! Perhaps not at the time you are reading this, but if you want a surefire solution to ‘what to do when your baby is overtired, this will work. Nestle into bed with them and start your nightly bedtime ritual. It is possible for your baby to act fussy. Being too tired after all takes a toll on sleep. So let them navigate their way through it. Your restful energy will calm them down and have them snoozing in no time!

Read More – Help a Sick Child Sleep Better

Conclusion

Dealing with a fussy, overtired baby is definitely a Herculean task. No doubt about that. However, a combination of these hacks might just be the secret you need to deal with an overtired baby. So be sure to give it an earnest shot.
Wondering which preschool to choose for your little one as they grow? EuroKids Preschool Admission is the perfect first step toward giving your child a strong foundation for lifelong learning. EuroKids is your best bet! We are the most awarded preschool in the nation, with branches in all major cities, big and small. Our teaching techniques are on par with the best educational institutions in the country. Know more about us by paying us a visit!